Identification of Hazardous Leachables in Cosmetic Plastics Using Microchamber Thermal Extraction

Abstract

Cosmetic plastic packaging materials may have hazardous chemicals release under thermal conditions, which will pose a possible risk to human health. In this study, the migration of volatile and semi-volatile toxicants from different polymer types of cosmetic plastics using microchamber thermal extraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis is studied. A laboratory experimental design was conducted to identify and quantify hazardous leachables. The effect of temperature on leachable release is assessed. Different cosmetic packaging materials, namely PET, PP, HDPE, LDPE, PVC, and PS, have been investigated with regard to comparison of leachable profiles. It is revealed that temperature affects the chemical migration of leachable matter in considerable degree. Moreover, the thermal treatment is proven by statistical analysis as being closely correlated with hazardous chemical release; stricter safety measures along with new types of packaging material are highly necessary. This study will have critical implications for cosmetic product stability, regulatory standards, and consumer safety by reinforcing the need for temperature-controlled storage conditions in order to minimize chemical contamination.