Cosmetics dipslides are used to test liquids / creams for bacteria, yeasts and moulds (fungi) which over time can cause spoilage to a cosmetic product. Their ability to provide bacterial results in non-clinical environments within 24-48 hours make them especially popular with cosmetic manufacturers who do not have access to lab testing. Our cosmetics dipslides can be dipped into your cosmetics sample or your sample can be swabbed onto the dipslide. These dipslides feature two different agars (culture media). If your cosmetic sample contains bacteria, yeasts or moulds, colonies will grow on the dipslide agar. The cosmetics dipslides have TSA agar on one side and Rose Bengal agar on the other side. The TSA agar tests for / grows a total bacteria count (TVC). The Rose Bengal agar tests for / grows a yeasts and moulds (fungi) count. Contaminated cosmetics can become harmful to the user if levels of bacteria / fungi are high. It can also cause spoilage to the cosmetic, causing changes in smell and appearance. Lotions / emulsions, shampoos and conditioners contain water unlike other cosmetics such as eye shadow and powders. This means that lotions etc are more likely to contain contaminants as water promotes microbial growth. If certain scenarios such as someone using a contaminated product on broken skin or around the eyes occur, the user may develop an infection. The FDA states the following on their website: "Companies and individuals who manufacture or distribute cosmetics are legally responsible for the safety of their products. This includes, for example, making sure cosmetics are free of harmful microorganisms". Further information can be found here: http://www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/ProductsIngredients/PotentialContaminants/ucm433748.htm The Guidelines from the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (European Commission) recommend that cosmetic products for children under 3 or for use around the eyes should not have a cfu/ml of more than 102cfu/ ml (total viable count). Any other cosmetic products should not exceed 103 cfu/ml. More information can be found here: SCCP Guidelines. Our full colour comparison sheet will help you to assess the cfu/ml in your sample. Scroll down to 'Reading The Results' to view the chart. How to use Cosmetics Dipslides Step 1 : Open the swab packet Making sure to wear sterile gloves, open the pouch and take out the swab Step 2 : Collect the sample The swab end should only come into contact with the sample as to reduce a chance of cross contamination. Step 3 : Streak the sample Carefully streak the sample onto one side of the dipslide then dispose of the swab. Step 4 : Repeat the procedure Repeat the procedure using a new swab (do not use the same swab) and streak on the Rose Bengal (pink) side. Step 5 : Incubate the dipslide Incubate the dipslide for 24 - 120 hours. Growth will show on the 'total count' side (straw coloured) side within 24-48 hours. Step 6 : Compare results Compare the dipslide against the comparison chart and record the amount of growth. Cosmetic Dipslide Features Flexible Paddle Each dipslide features a virtually unbreakable and flexible paddle allowing for even, full surface testing. Easy Run Off Design Due to the design of the dipslide, fluids will drain off quickly during testing. Recessed Handle Each slide has a handle built into the lid that is recessed to help keep your fingers dry during testing. Side Indicator One side of the slide will have a circle indicator so you know which side was used for testing which type of contaminant. Dual Sided Each dipslide is dual sided to allow multiple contamination testing with one test. Thick Reliable Agar Each agar is thick (approx 4mm) and raised above the dipslide to allow for easy surface testing. With viscous lotions, it is advisable to use a swab to transfer the sample onto the dipslide rather than dipping the slide in the sample itself. Unscrew the lid from the dipslide, take a swab from your sample and apply it to one side of the dipslide. Repeat the procedure on the other side of the dipslide. Replace the lid and place the slide in an incubator for 24 - 120 hours. Growth will show on the 'Total Count' side within 24-48 hours. Growth on the yeasts / moulds side will take longer (up to 120 hours). Once incubated, compare results with the chart provided. In order to test your samples, you will need an incubator. We offer a full range of incubators of various sizes. Our Gnat incubator which holds two slides at a time is very popular for smaller applications. Sterile swabs can be purchased here: Individually wrapped swabs. What is a Cosmetic Dipslide? The Cosmetic dipslide is a dual sided slide coated in two different agars. It features a Tryptone Soya Agar with TTC to detect aerobic bacteria and a Rose Bengal Agar to detect yeasts and moulds. It is used in the cos
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Your destination for high quality dip slides (manufactured in the UK). We only sell dip slides and dipslide incubators, allowing us to specialise in providing you with quality products you can rely on. We offer discounts on volume orders and can ship worldwide with rapid delivery times
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