An impedimetric method for rapid screening of cosmetic preservatives

An efficient impedance method was developed for rapid evaluation of cosmetic preservatives. The method used decimal reduction time or D-value to assess preservative efficacies. The D-value, which was calculated from the plot of Log CFU ml-1 versus time by linear regression analysis, could be obtained within 48 h. Thus, the time required for the challenge test was reduced from 4-8 weeks with the standard procedures (eg US Pharmacopeia), to 2 days with the current method. A calibration curve (r = -0.95) was established by plotting the Log CFU ml-1 versus capacitance detection time (DT) of 108 samples. With the calibration, CFU can be estimated directly from the impedance test without plating. Two commercial biocides and several other chemicals were evaluated in a shampoo by the impedance procedure against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The D-values obtained from the impedance test were not significantly different from those produced by the conventional plate count method. The technique was found to be particularly useful when screening a large number of compounds to find novel preservatives and synergistic preservative combinations.