Qualitative Analysis of UV-Absorbents in Cosmetics Based on UV-Vis Spectrum

Importance of the Topic

The use of ultraviolet absorbers in cosmetics is crucial to protect skin from UV damage and is tightly regulated by health authorities. Reliable analytical methods are needed to verify compliance and ensure product safety.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study aims to develop and demonstrate a qualitative HPLC method using UV-Vis spectral data to identify six common UV-absorbents in cosmetic formulations and to apply the approach to a commercial foundation sample.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Column: Shim-pack Velox C18 (100 mm × 3.0 mm I.D., 2.7 μm)
• Mobile phase: water with 0.085 % phosphoric acid (A) and acetonitrile (B) with a high-pressure gradient (60 % B to 90 % B to 100 % B)
• Flow rate: 1 mL/min; Column temperature: 60 °C; Injection volume: 1 µL
• Detection: SPD-M40 photodiode array detector collecting spectra from 190 to 800 nm

Key Results and Discussion

The calibration of six UV-absorbents exhibited excellent linearity (R2 ≥ 0.9999) and repeatability (RSD < 0.35 %) for retention time and peak area. UV-Vis spectra were recorded for each compound and stored in a spectral library. Comparison of spectra from standard solutions (1 mg/L and 100 mg/L) and the foundation extract showed high similarity (> 0.99), confirming the presence and identity of three UV-absorbents in the cosmetic sample within regulatory limits.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Enhanced qualitative identification of UV-absorbers using HPLC-PDA data
• Compliance testing for cosmetic regulations
• Rapid screening of multiple compounds in complex matrices

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advancements may include automated peak recognition based on spectral similarity and retention time, expansion of spectral libraries to broader compound classes, and integration with mass spectrometry to further strengthen qualitative analysis.

Conclusion

The UV-Vis spectral approach integrated with HPLC-PDA provides a robust and reliable method for qualitative analysis of UV-absorbents in cosmetics, supporting regulatory compliance and product safety.

References

No external references were provided.