Cosmetics Testing – METS Laboratories
Cosmetic product testing is a critical step in ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of beauty and personal care products before they reach consumers. It involves a series of evaluations—including safety tests, stability tests, performance assessments, and consumer trials—to verify that the product meets regulatory standards and delivers the promised benefits.
Importance of Cosmetics Testing
Cosmetic testing ensures product safety, stability, efficacy, and compliance with international standards such as ISO (International Organization for Standardization) and IS (Indian Standards).
- Safety & Toxicity Testing
- Microbiological Testing
- Stability & Shelf-Life Testing
- Performance & Efficacy Testing
- Packaging Compatibility
- Heavy Metal & Chemical Safety
Categories of Cosmetics
Cosmetics can be broadly classified into several categories based on their application area, function, and formulation.
1. Application Area
A. Skin Care
- Cleansers(Face wash, makeup removers)
- Moisturizers(Creams, lotions, serums)
- Anti-Aging & Treatment Products(Retinol, peptides, vitamin C serums)
- Sun Care(Sunscreens, after-sun lotions – ISO 24444 for SPF testing)
- Acne & Blemish Control(Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide-based products)
B. Hair Care
- Shampoos & Conditioners
- Hair Styling(Gels, sprays, waxes – ISO 23167 for aerosol testing)
- Hair Color & Treatments(Dyes, bleaches, keratin treatments)
- Scalp Care(Anti-dandruff, growth serums)
C. Makeup (Color Cosmetics)
- Face(Foundation, concealer, blush, primer)
- Eyes(Mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow – ISO 21150 for microbial safety)
- Lips(Lipstick, lip gloss, lip balm)
- Nails(Nail polish, cuticle oils – ISO 17131 for stability)
D. Fragrances
- Perfumes & Colognes(EDP, EDT, etc.)
- Deodorants & Body Sprays(ISO 22716 for GMP compliance)
E. Oral Care
- Toothpaste, mouthwash, teeth whiteners
F. Intimate & Personal Hygiene
- Feminine washes, intimate wipes
2. By Function
- Cleansing(Soaps, micellar water)
- Treatment(Acne creams, anti-hair fall serums)
- Protection(Sunscreens, antiperspirants)
- Enhancement(Makeup, fragrances)
3. By Formulation Type
- Emulsions(Creams, lotions)
- Gels(Face gels, hair gels)
- Serums(Lightweight, high-active concentration)
- Aerosols(Hair sprays, deodorants – ISO 22254 for spray testing)
- Powders(Compact makeup, dry shampoo)
- Sticks(Lip balms, deodorant sticks)
4. Regulatory & Safety-Based Categories
- Rinse-off(Shampoos, body wash) vs. Leave-on (Moisturizers, serums)
- Baby & Kids Cosmetics(Mild, hypoallergenic – ISO 22716 compliance)
- Natural/Organic(ISO 16128 for ingredient standards)
- Vegan & Cruelty-Free(No animal testing, plant-based)
Types of Cosmetics Testing
Ensures the product is non-irritating, non-toxic, and safe for human use.
A. Skin Irritation & Sensitization Tests
- Human Patch Test(ISO 10993-10) – Checks for allergic reactions.
- In Vitro Skin Models(EpiSkin, EpiDerm) – Replaces animal testing.
- Draize Test (Older, now largely replaced by alternatives).
B. Eye Irritation Test (ISO 10993-10, OECD 437)
- EpiOcular Model– Artificial cornea test for shampoos, mascaras.
C. Cytotoxicity Test (ISO 10993-5)
- Checks if ingredients damage human cells.
Ensures products are free from harmful bacteria, yeast, and mold.
A. Microbial Limit Test (ISO 17516, USP 61)
- Detects total aerobic microbial count (TAMC) & yeast/mold (TYMC).
B. Preservative Efficacy Test (PET) / Challenge Test (ISO 11930, USP 51)
- Checks if preservatives can prevent microbial growth.
C. Sterility Testing (ISO 13408 for sterile cosmetics)
- For products like eye drops, injectable fillers.
Determines product durability under different conditions.
A. Accelerated Stability Test (ISO 18811, ICH Q1A)
- Exposes products to high temp (40°C), humidity, and lightto predict shelf life.
B. Real-Time Stability Test
- Monitors product under normal storage conditions for months/years.
C. Freeze-Thaw Cycle Test
- Checks formula stability in varying temperatures.
Validates product claims (moisturizing, anti-aging, SPF, etc.).
A. SPF & UV Protection Test (ISO 24444, COLIPA)
- Measures sunscreen effectiveness.
B. Moisturization & Hydration Test (Corneometry, TEWL)
- Uses devices to measure skin hydration levels.
C. Anti-Aging & Wrinkle Reduction Test
- 3D imaging, elastometry, collagen measurement.
D. Hair Strength & Damage Test (ISO 5079)
- Tensile strength testing for hair products.
Ensures packaging does not degrade the product.
A. Leakage Test (ISO 8871 for tubes/bottles)
B. Compatibility Test (ISO 29621)
- Checks if packaging reacts with the formula.
Ensures no harmful chemicals exceed limits.
A. Heavy Metal Test (ISO 17294, ICP-MS)
- Detects lead, arsenic, mercury, cadmium.
B. Residual Solvent Test (GC-MS)
- Checks for leftover chemicals from manufacturing.
C. Formaldehyde & Banned Substances (EU/ASEAN Cosmetic Regs)
Evaluates texture, fragrance, and usability.
A. Panel Testing (Human Volunteers)
- Feedback on spreadability, scent, feel.
B. Texture Analysis (Rheology Testing)
- Measures viscosity, elasticity, and flow.
What METS Laboratories Offers?
NABL accredited, METS LABORTORIES INDIA PVT.LTD can test to a variety of the established methods (e.g., ISO, ASTMD, AOAC, APHA, FSSAI, BIS,)
- Our laboratory conducts testing on a wide range of products, materials, and components to verify compliance with standards, specifications, and regulatory requirements. Our team is happy to provide expert advice and guidance to ensure the appropriate water testing is carried out for your needs.
- Our dedicated, experienced, and friendly team is here to help—providing expert knowledge, guidance, and access to cutting-edge water testing capabilities and technologies in our laboratory.
- We conduct comprehensive product evaluations for appearance, quality, and performance. Our technical support network provides expert guidance—answering questions, interpreting results, and assisting with quality assurance program management.
- We participate in inter-laboratory proficiency testing and comparative analyses to ensure accuracy, reliability, and compliance with industry standards.
- We implement and maintain rigorous ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation, ensuring internationally recognized standards for testing competence, measurement accuracy, and operational excellence in every analysis.
- We maintain strict customer confidentiality by treating all data as proprietary information.
- AccreditedISO/IEC 17025:2017 compliant services
- End-to-end environmental monitoring and sampling
- Customized test plans for industry, agriculture, urban planning, and residential safety
- Advanced instrumentation: GC-MS, ICP-OES, AAS, HPLC, FTIR, etc.
- On-site sampling by trained professionals
- Digital reports with compliance interpretation
- Emergency testing and quick-turnaround options
Beyond numbers, we offer peace of mind by delivering science you can trust and reports you can act on.
What We Ensure?
- Data Integrity: Every result is generated and verified under strict quality assurance.
- Compliance: All tests conform to the latest regulatory and industry-specific guidelines.
- Transparency: Clear, easy-to-understand reports and consultation support.
- Confidentiality: Your data remains secure, private, and protected.
- Environmental Stewardship: Our labs follow eco-friendly practices and aim to minimize testing-related waste and emissions.
Who It’s For?
- Industrial Facilities: To monitor effluents, emissions, and workplace safety
- Construction and Real Estate: For soil contamination, water logging, and indoor air quality
- Municipal Corporations: To assess urban air and water quality
- Schools, Hospitals & Hotels: For ensuring safe indoor environments
- Agricultural Communities: To test irrigation water and soil health
- NGOs & Research Institutions: For pollution studies and policy advocacy
- Citizens & RWAs: For local monitoring and complaint-based testing
Protect Consumers. Satisfy Authorities. Boost Market Confidence.
In today’s sustainability-driven world, businesses are held accountable by customers, investors, and regulators alike. METS Laboratories empowers you to:
• Protect your workforce and surrounding communities
• Achieve compliance with CPCB, SPCB, MoEF&CC, WHO, and ISO standards
• Build a reputation as an environmentally responsible brand
• Avoid costly penalties and legal action due to non-compliance
• Earn stakeholder trust with verified environmental claims and ESG reporting
Environmental testing isn’t just a legal formality—it’s a strategic asset.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a test?
You can contact METS Laboratories via phone, email, or our website to schedule sampling or drop off a sample at our facility.
Is your lab accredited?
Yes, METS Laboratories is accredited under ISO/IEC 17025:2017.
How long does it take to get results?
Turnaround time depends on the parameters, but standard reports are typically delivered within 3–7 working days.
Do you provide on-site sampling?
Yes, we have trained field teams who follow strict SOPs for on-site sample collection.
Can I get help understanding the report?
Absolutely. We offer report interpretation and guidance on corrective actions or next steps.
What locations do you serve?
We serve clients across India and can coordinate with international partners when required.
Can you help with regulatory approvals?
Yes, our test reports are accepted by government authorities, and we can assist in documentation for environmental clearances.
