Stability Test (Shelf Life)
What is Stability?
Stability testing is an important parameter in cosmetic products. Stability refers to the capacity of the cosmetic product to maintain its specified physical and chemical properties. Stability tests can be determined by 2 different methods as long-term stability test and accelerated stability test.
In the scope of the "Guideline on the Stability of Cosmetic Products and the Duration of Use After Opening" prepared by the Turkish Medicines and Medical Devices Agency;
- Accelerated Stability Test: Stability/durability studies conducted under forced conditions compared to normal storage conditions in order to accelerate the chemical and physical degradation of the cosmetic product.
- Long Term Stability Test: Refers to stability studies in which the physical, chemical, biological and microbiological properties of the cosmetic product are evaluated to cover the foreseen shelf life period.
What is Shelf Life?
The period during which a product can fulfill its initial functions when stored under normal conditions is considered as shelf life. Cosmetics offered for sale must be safe for human health under the specified storage conditions for the specified shelf life.
What are the Determining Factors in Stability Tests?
The properties of cosmetic products such as composition, formulation, packaging, method of use are determining factors in stability tests that can be performed on products to determine their durability under storage conditions before opening or during the period of use after opening.
Stability tests are performed on the final packaged product. The storage conditions and working time determined during the testing process include storage, transportation and use of the product. Stability tests generally check for changes in some parameters.
Stability Studies Control Parameters
- pH: TS 518, TS 5270, TS 4811, TS 9676
- Packaging changes (breakage, cracking, sealing)
- Sensory Changes (smell, color, appearance): Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, TS 12439
- Viscosity change
- Weight change
- Determination of microbial load
Stability testing of cosmetic products is performed to determine the
safety, quality and
shelf life of the product. These tests are used to examine whether the physical, chemical, microbiological and sensory properties of the product formulation change over time. Stability tests prove whether cosmetic products maintain their quality before being offered to the consumer and can be used safely for the prescribed period of time.
In our laboratories serving in many parts of Turkey, Stability Tests on Cosmetic Products are carried out based on international standards, test methods, and relevant legal regulations with TÜRKAK accreditation.
