# Application of the ICP-OES and SEM-EDS Techniques for Elemental Analysis of Various Types of Cosmetic Products with Antiperspirant and Deodorant Properties Available on the EU Market

## TL;DR

This study analyzed the elemental composition of various antiperspirants and deodorants using ICP-OES and SEM-EDS techniques.

## Contribution

The study provides a comparative elemental analysis of 72 cosmetic products using ICP-OES and SEM-EDS techniques.

## Key findings

- Aluminium and zirconium were the most significant elements in antiperspirants.
- Lead was detected in 35 out of 72 samples, with some concentrations exceeding 1 mg/L.
- SEM-EDS analysis verified elemental composition and product label information.

## Abstract

Nowadays deodorants and antiperspirants play an important role in maintaining daily hygiene, exerting a substantial influence on both physical comfort and social functioning. Consequently, they can be regarded as a pivotal component of contemporary personal hygiene programs. The aim of this study was to undertake a comparative analysis of the elemental composition of diverse samples (72) of various roll-on deodorants and antiperspirants, sticks, and solid natural potassium–aluminium alums. These analyses were performed using ICP-OES and SEM-EDS techniques. The obtained results were then subjected to statistical and chemometric analysis. Studies demonstrated that Al and Zr were the most significant elements in the tested samples. Aluminium, a prevalent component in antiperspirants, was quantified in concentrations ranging from 0.9% to 4.4%, and in potassium–aluminium alums up to 4.7%. Aluminium and zirconium compounds were found to be the predominant elements in stick antiperspirants, with zirconium levels reaching up to 3%. The presence of lead was quantified in 35 of the 72 samples, with 19 samples exhibiting concentrations exceeding 1 mg/L. The highest lead level, reaching 15.90 mg/L, was found in potassium–aluminium alum. Furthermore, SEM-EDS analysis was conducted to verify the elemental composition, to provide data on additional ingredients, and to partially verify the information contained on the product labels.