Reformulation

What is reformulation?

Deformulation of the components of a complex formulation, whether it be a cosmetic product, a detergent, a coating, an adhesive, or a polymer. It allows for the decomposition of a finished product into its chemical constituents, whether they are major components or present in trace amounts.

This analysis is essential for understanding the structure of a formulation, assessing its regulatory compliance, and ensuring its technical reproducibility. It is notably used in competitive intelligence, reformulation, regulatory compliance (REACH, CLP, INCI), and in the event of a quality dispute.

What is the purpose of a reformulation study?

The reformulation process serves several strategic and technical objectives:

• Analyze the composition of a competitor's product
• Reproduce or reformulate an existing formula
• Identify the causes of a defect or non-conformity
• Check for regulatory labeling or INCI compliance
• Detect unwanted impurities, allergens or residues
• Documenting a regulatory declaration (e.g., SDS, Cosmetic Dossier)

It is particularly useful in sectors subject to strong competitive pressure or strict regulatory requirements.

Which matrices are involved?

Deformulation applies to a wide variety of complex products:

• Cosmetics (creams, lotions, shampoos, makeup)
• Household products and detergents
• Coatings, inks, varnishes, paints
• Resins, glues, adhesives
• Technical plastics and polymers
• Processed food products (texture analysis, additives, etc.)

What techniques are used for deformulation?

Reformulation relies on a combination of advanced analytical techniques, adapted according to the chemical and physical nature of the sample. Among the most common are:

• GC-MS (gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry): to identify volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds
• LC-MS (high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry): for heat-sensitive or polar compounds
• FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy): for the functional characterization of chemical bonds
• NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance): to determine the structure of complex organic compounds
• XRD (X-ray diffraction): for the crystalline phase of certain solid ingredients
• ICP-MS or ICP-OES: for the quantification of trace metallic elements
• Each analysis is tailored to the objective sought, whether it is a global screening or a targeted search for specific ingredients or contaminants.

Expert support with YesWeLab

At YesWeLab , we provide you with a network of laboratories specializing in formulation analysis, mastering the most advanced deformulation techniques. All are ISO 17025 certified and, depending on your needs, COFRAC accredited, guaranteeing the reliability and traceability of results.

Our scientific team will assist you with:

• Define the reformulation protocol adapted to your product
• Prioritize techniques according to your budget and your end goal
• Interpret the results in a comprehensive technical report
• Ensure the absolute confidentiality of the information transmitted

Our secure digital platform allows you to submit your requests, track your projects and retrieve your results with ease.

Need to reformulate a complex product?

YesWeLab supports you in your cosmetic, chemical, food, or technical deformulation projects.
Contact our team today for a personalized quote or to discuss your specific analytical reverse engineering needs.