Dosage of active ingredients

The dosage of active ingredients involves quantifying the molecules responsible for the claimed effects in an ingredient, extract, or finished product. These substances, of plant or synthetic origin, give formulations their specific properties, whether antioxidant, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, or nutritional.

This type of analysis is essential to verify the content of claimed active ingredients, ensure the quality of formulations, and meet regulatory labeling requirements. It also allows for the evaluation of product stability over time and the identification of any potential loss of efficacy.

Analytical methods

The techniques used for the quantification of active ingredients are chosen according to the chemical nature of the molecules to be analyzed and the matrix being studied:

• HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) : suitable for the precise quantification of phenolic compounds, alkaloids or vitamins.
• GC-MS (Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry) : ideal for volatile and semi-volatile molecules such as terpenes and aromas.
• LC-MS/MS : very sensitive and selective, it allows the detection of active ingredients present in trace amounts in complex matrices.
• UV-Vis spectrophotometry : used as a rapid screening method for certain known active ingredients.

Affected matrices

The dosage of active ingredients is applicable to a wide variety of products and ingredients:

• Cosmetics: creams, gels, lotions, functional serums.
• Dietary supplements: capsules, tablets, powders, oral solutions.
• Plant extracts: essential oils, dry extracts, tinctures, macerates.
• Raw ingredients: plant powders, nutraceutical raw materials.

Industrial applications

This analysis is proving essential for many sectors:

• Quality control : verification of the conformity of raw materials and finished products.
• Label validation : ensuring that the displayed active ingredient content corresponds to reality.
• Standardization of plant extracts : essential in nutraceuticals and phytotherapy to guarantee a consistent composition.
• Stability monitoring : monitoring of concentration variations during aging tests or exposure to light and heat.
• Development of innovative formulations : measurement of active ingredients to adjust and optimize formulas.

Additional analyses

The measurement of active ingredients can be combined with other analyses available in the YesWeLab catalogue to provide a comprehensive overview:

• Flavonoid assay for antioxidant compounds of plant origin.
• Total polyphenol assay to characterize overall antioxidant content.
• Accelerated stability tests to monitor the evolution of active ingredients in formulations.

Regulations and issues

Regulations in the cosmetics, nutraceutical, and food industries mandate strict control of the concentrations of claimed active ingredients. Failure to comply can lead to penalties, product recalls, or a loss of credibility with consumers.

In the case of products in contact with food, certain active molecules must also comply with specific regulations such as REACH or Regulation (EU) No 10/2011.

YesWeLab expertise

YesWeLab leverages its network of partner laboratories, most of which are ISO 17025 accredited and COFRAC certified, to ensure reliable results. Each analysis is tailored to your specific needs: matrix type, preferred analytical methods, and regulatory requirements.

Thanks to our digital platform, you can centralize your requests, track your samples, and easily access your results. Since 2020, hundreds of manufacturers, distributors, and engineering firms have entrusted us with their analyses to ensure the quality and innovation of their products.