Determination of PAO in Cosmetics – New Guideline by GÖCH

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Feb 8, 2022 - Cosmetics

Determination of PAO in Cosmetics – New Guideline by GÖCH

The Microbiology Working Group of the GÖCH (Society of Austrian Chemists), with the contribution of Ms. Joelle Nussbaum from the BAV Institute, has published a new guide on the topic of determining the PAO (Period After Opening) for cosmetics.

The PAO is an indication of the shelf life of cosmetics and is necessary for products that have a minimum shelf life of 30 months or more. The new guide demonstrates how to determine the PAO in a practical way. The requirements of the Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 regarding shelf life can therefore be met.

So, in the context of such stability tests, the following are often examined:

-       Sensory properties (appearance, color, smell, consistency)

-       Microbiological status according to ISO 17516

-       pH value, density, viscosity

-       Chemical parameters such as preservatives, UV filters

-       Residues, e.g., phthalates

The microbiological stability is tested using the Preservative Efficacy Test (PET) according to ISO 11930.

You can view the guide as well as a table with common shelf lives for various product groups here for free.