Application of the ICP-OES and SEM-EDS Techniques for Elemental Analysis of Various Types of Cosmetic Products with Antiperspirant and Deodorant Properties Available on the EU Market
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Nowadays deodorants and antiperspirants play an important role in maintaining daily hygiene, exerting a substantial influence on both physical comfort and social functioning. Consequently, they can be regarded as a pivotal component of contemporary personal hygiene programs. The aim of this study was to undertake a comparative analysis of the elemental composition of diverse samples (72) of various roll-on deodorants and antiperspirants, sticks, and solid natural potassium-aluminium alums. These analyses were performed using ICP-OES and SEM-EDS techniques. The obtained results were then subjected to statistical and chemometric analysis. Studies demonstrated that Al and Zr were the most significant elements in the tested samples. Aluminium, a prevalent component in antiperspirants, was quantified in concentrations ranging from 0.9% to 4.4%, and in potassium-aluminium alums up to 4.7%. Aluminium and zirconium compounds were found to be the predominant elements in stick antiperspirants, with zirconium levels reaching up to 3%. The presence of lead was quantified in 35 of the 72 samples, with 19 samples exhibiting concentrations exceeding 1 mg/L. The highest lead level, reaching 15.90 mg/L, was found in potassium-aluminium alum. Furthermore, SEM-EDS analysis was conducted to verify the elemental composition, to provide data on additional ingredients, and to partially verify the information contained on the product labels.
Source: Molecules
Authors: Elżbieta Maćkiewicz, Aleksandra Zimon, Aleksandra Pawlaczyk, Jadwiga Albińska, Małgorzata Iwona Szynkowska-Jóźwik
Institution: Lodz University of Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Analytical Chemistry
Field: Chemistry
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,258
OpenAlex ID: W4415187729