The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) White Paper published in December 2021 summarizes the scientific opinions of subject matter experts on the reliable testing of talc-containing cosmetic products. The white paper upholds the long-held consensus that Polarized Light Microscopy (PLM) analysis alone is not sufficient to show that a cosmetic product does not contain asbestos. PLM analysis is only considered sufficient when an individual sample has been found to already contain asbestos. Following the guidelines set forth in the FDA paper, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) analysis should accompany a PLM result if no asbestos is detected. Cosmetics contain waxes, binders and carbonates that may interfere with analysis; therefore, gravimetric prep is recommended.
“Knowing if asbestos is in your skin care or cosmetic product is still a concern today,” said Joseph Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Although the use of asbestos in most products in the U.S. were partially banned in 1989, it is important for consumers to understand some products may still contain asbestos. The experts at EMSL have been performing asbestos testing services for over 40 years and ready to assist consumers and manufacturers.”
EMSL's corporate headquarters in Cinnaminson, NJ is set up for this particular analysis. To run these two analytical options, a 4-8 oz sample of the material is required. To further read the FDA guidelines regarding cosmetics and asbestos testing, visit https://www.regulations.gov/document/FDA-2020-N-0025-0053.
EMSL can provide help and guidance to further test your products properly utilizing the recommendations set for by FDA white paper. For more information about asbestos testing and the procedures for cosmetics, visit www.emsl.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@emsl.com .
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC's, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA-LAP, LLC (AIHA-LAP, LLC EMLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC IHLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP, and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.
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