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A cosmetic product that complies with microbiological specifications after production is not necessarily microbiologically stable throughout its shelf life and consumer use.
Each time a product is opened, it is exposed to microorganisms through air, packaging, and consumer contact. Therefore, it is not enough for a product to be microbiologically clean at the time of manufacture—the preservative system must also remain effective against contamination throughout the product’s intended period of use.
For this reason, an initial microbiological analysis should be performed before the Challenge Test to verify the product’s baseline microbiological quality.
At Bilim Laboratory, the Challenge Test process follows this approach. Products that successfully pass the initial microbiological assessment proceed to Challenge Testing, and the final report includes both the preliminary microbiological analysis results and the Challenge Test results.
Under ISO 11930, the product is intentionally inoculated with the following challenge microorganisms:
The preservative system is evaluated based on its ability to reduce these microorganisms on Day 7, Day 14, and Day 28, with results interpreted according to Criterion A or Criterion B of ISO 11930.
Challenge Testing supports:
Challenge Testing is one of the key analyses supporting the Product Information File (PIF) for cosmetics containing preservative systems and is an important requirement for regulatory compliance.
For more information about Challenge Testing or to submit samples for analysis, please contact us.
