What is ISO 21621?

ISO 21621 is officially titled:

“Cosmetics — Analytical methods — Quantification of trace elements”

This standard specifies the analytical procedures and techniques used to measure the levels of harmful trace elements in cosmetic products. Key features include:

  1. Validated test methods for detecting elements like Pb, As, Cd, Hg, Sb, and Ni
  2. Use of advanced instrumentation such as ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry)
  3. Guidelines for sample preparation, analysis, and result interpretation
  4. Thresholds aligned with regulatory limits defined by global health and safety agencies

ISO 21621 provides a harmonized method for laboratories, manufacturers, and regulators to assess product safety accurately and consistently.

Why is ISO 21621 important?

The presence of toxic heavy metals in cosmetics—even in trace amounts—can result in:

  1. Regulatory recalls and legal penalties
  2. Consumer health risks
  3. Damage to brand reputation
  4. Loss of market access in regulated regions like the EU or USA

ISO 21621 addresses this by offering a globally accepted methodology to quantify and control the presence of hazardous elements in cosmetics.

What are the benefits of ISO 21621?

Implementing ISO 21621 delivers numerous scientific and commercial benefits:

  1. 🧪 Reliable Testing: Provides reproducible results with standardized analytical methods
  2. 🧼 Improved Product Safety: Detects harmful elements before products reach the market
  3. 🌍 Global Market Readiness: Supports compliance with EU, FDA, ASEAN, and other international regulations
  4. 🏷️ Clean Label Assurance: Enhances transparency and trust in product ingredients
  5. 🔬 Supports R&D and Formulation: Helps chemists optimize safe and compliant formulas


What kind of businesses can benefit from ISO 21621?

Organizations adopting ISO 21621 gain key advantages:

  1. Regulatory Compliance

          Ensure your cosmetic products meet safety thresholds set by major global authorities.

  1. Risk Reduction

          Avoid costly recalls, lawsuits, or enforcement actions due to unsafe trace elements.

  1. Build Consumer Trust

          Demonstrate a commitment to clean, safe, and scientifically tested cosmetics.

  1. Streamline Quality Control

           Integrate robust testing methods into your manufacturing and QA processes.

  1. Market Expansion

          Meet the requirements for exporting to high-regulation markets like the EU, US, Japan, and Canada.

  1. Reinforce Brand Reputation

          Communicate your commitment to safety and compliance through verified testing standards.


Whatsapp