ISO 18415 for Microbiological Examinations of Cosmetics Updated

The ISO 18415 cosmetics standard has just been updated.  You can get your copy of this new revision from Document Center Inc.  Your authorized purchase can be made in paper format or for pdf download.   Cosmetics – Microbiology – Detection of specified and non-specified microorganisms 2nd Edition cancels and replaces the 1st Edition from 2007.

Standards serve a very public service in assuring us that the products that we purchase are safe.  Indeed, quality and safety are two of the most important factors in standards development.  There are many products that we don’t particularly associate with standards.  Yet in areas like cosmetics, standards have an important role to play.

One of these is the determination of microbiological risk and protocols for reducing those risks.  Since cosmetics can harbor pathogens that cause infection, it is essential that cosmetic developers and manufacturers be vigilant.  And special care must be taken to avoid contamination during the manufacturing process itself.

ISO 18415 gives you guidelines for the detection and identification of specified microorganisms in cosmetic products.  You’ll be using a method that involves the use of a liquid medium for detection of microbial growth.  Any microorganisms can then be isolated using an agar media. Details on identifying these micoorganisms are included.  You’ll also find information on specific tests and test equipment.

Those of you already using the document will want to know about the changes in this second edition of ISO 18415.  The committee has provided you with information in the Foreword to the standard.  First, it notes that this is considered a “minor” revision.  Changes can be found in:

  • The scope section
  • Section 3.8
  • Clause 4
  • Sections 5.1, 5.2.1, and 5.3.3.1
  • Sections 11.3.1, 11.3.2, 11.3.3
  • Clause  12

Most of these updates center on a change to the concept of “validation.”

If you need a copy, use an authorized distributor like Document Center Inc. for your purchase.  You can search for and order from our catalog of over 1 million standards with confidence.  You’ll find the Document Center webstore at www.document-center.com.  Here is a direct link to the order page for ISO 18415 for your convenience.  You may also want to take a look at our Document Center Inc. List of Standards on Cosmetics Microbiology.

Document Center Inc. has been working with standards since 1982.  You’ll find our staff to be knowledgeable, ready to help you with all your standards questions and concerns.  Reach out to us by phone (650-591-7600) or email (info@document-center.com).  You’ll soon find out why so many companies make us their Standards Experts!