Webinar Series

This webinar introduces a rapid headspace SPME method for quantifying BTEX in nail product matrices using the Agilent 8890 GC with a 7000 Series triple quadrupole MS (GC/TQ). Smart SPME technology enables solvent-free extraction and automated fiber tracking, while GC/TQ in dynamic multiple reaction monitoring (dMRM) mode delivers high sensitivity and selectivity. The method uses a 1-minute extraction at 40 °C and an ~11-minute total cycle time, achieving R² up to 0.999 with Avg. RF RSDs of 4–10% over 10–5,000 ng (m&p-xylenes 20–10,000 ng). Accuracy and precision were verified with LCS recoveries of 100–108% and ≤8% RSD. Attendees will learn how this streamlined workflow supports high-throughput analysis and regulatory monitoring.

In this webinar we will discuss the matrix complexity of sunscreen and how that complexity negatively affects routine analysis. We will demonstrate how the Captiva EMR-lipid cartridges successfully eliminated matrix interferences for accurately and reproducibly quantifying of UV filters in sunscreen.

We will also discuss PFAS use in cosmetics. In cosmetics, PFAS are valued for their functional properties, including emulsification, stabilization, and water or sweat resistance. However, the now understood health and environmental impact of these compounds have led to strict regulations of these additives, with a list of banned substances growing. Methods for accurately determining the PFAS content in cosmetics will be discussed in the context of growing regulation in the industry.

Furanocoumarins are natural compounds found in certain plants, including citrus fruits, parsley, celery, and carrots. Citrus oils in particular, are sometimes used in skincare products to effectively remove bacteria, dead skin cells, and irritants to improve overall skin health, address common issues like acne and provide a pleasant scent. *1  However, they can pose risks when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. 

Phytophotodermatitus (PPD) is a reaction that is entirely independent of the immune system. The development of PPD is dependent upon exposure of the skin to a photosensitizing substance (furanocoumarin) and UV radiation, especially in the UV range of 320-400 nm. When a photon of the appropriate wavelength strikes a furanocoumarin, the molecule is raised to a triply exited state from the ground state energy. Once the molecule returns to the ground state, energy is released in the form of heat, fluorescence or phosphorescence which may result in a photoproduct being formed. *2

The chemical structure of furanocoumarins consists of a furan ring fused with a coumarin. The furan ring, fused in various ways, produces several different isomers. The parent compounds of the most common isomers are psoralen and angelicin. Derivatives of these two compounds are referred to respectively as linear and angular furanocoumarins,*3 since  they exhibit a linear or angular chemical structure.

The LC/MS method outlined here has been shown to be linear, accurate and precise for the characterization and quantitation of Thirteen common furanocoumarins in citrus oils.

Learn how SLIMS for Analytical Laboratories can help digitize your laboratory workflows.  SLIMS combines the best of a laboratory information management system (LIMS)  an electronic laboratory notebook (ELN), or a Laboratory Execution System (LES) in one system, enabling you to monitor your workflows and digitally document your lab procedures.

• Learn how digitizing workflows can enable increased throughput and remove manual data transcription.
• Learn how SLIMS can automate laboratory processes removing manual steps and complicated Excel calculations.
• Learn how SLIMS can Track samples, keep lineages, and record results in a single system.

Hyaluronic acid is widely used in cosmetic formulations for its exceptional water-binding capacity and rheological effects, both of which arise from its high molar mass and extended polyelectrolyte structure in solution.

At sufficiently high molar mass, hyaluronic acid exhibits pronounced angular dependence in static light scattering, providing a clear demonstration of the limitations of low-angle Zimm-plot analysis. This presentation shows how increased angular resolution using a 20-angle multi-angle light scattering detector, combined with practical data evaluation and workflow considerations, enables more reliable determination of molar mass and size for non-ideal polymer systems.

Key learning objectives

• Why hyaluronic acid molar mass matters in cosmetic formulations.
• How increased angular resolution in a 20-angle MALS detector improves molar mass and size determination for extended polyelectrolytes.
• How to process and interpret HA MALS data in practice, from angle selection to Zimm-plot evaluation.