Electrochemical sensors for the safety and quality control of cosmetics: An overview of achievements and challenges

Abstract

Due to the rapid growth of the cosmetic industry in recent years, the development of new, reliable, cost-effective, ease of use and rapid methods to assay cosmetics’ quality is of particular importance. Modern electrochemistry provides powerful analytical techniques with excellent sensitivity, instrumental simplicity and portability, providing reliable alter-natives to conventional analytical methods. This review aims to give readers a clear view of advances in areas of electrode modification, successful strategies for signal amplification, and miniaturization techniques used in electroanalytical devices for cosmetics control and safety. We have summarized recent trends in the nonenzymatic electrochemical sensor sys-tems applied in the analysis of cosmetic products revealing that there are a variety of ef-ficient sensors for whitening agents, preservatives, UV filters, heavy metals, etc. In conclu-sion, current challenges related to the sensors design and future perspectives are outlined.