Simultaneous Analysis of Multiple Colloidal Components in Complex Cosmetics Using Total Holographic Characterization

Cosmetics are complex combinations of multiple emulsions and particle types. Total Holographic Characterization easily distinguishes these different components and determines size, composition, morphology and concentration of each component simultaneously, even when the different emulsion droplets and particles are the same size. Total Holographic Characterization measures particle holograms to distinguish multiple components in complex colloidal mixtures without special sample preparation or separation in a single measurement. In the work presented, Total Holographic Characterization is used to characterize heterogeneous suspensions containing different types of emulsions and particles in the size range from 500 nm to 10 μm, including complex mixtures found in typical cosmetic products. Traditional light scattering techniques can measure the distribution of particle sizes, but are unable to distinguish different species of sub-visible particles that are the same size when they are present in the same sample. Index of refraction is different for different emulsions and particles so that each component can be distinguished and characterized.