ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a cosmetic microbiologist with a background in toxicology intended to be helpful for the development of cosmetic preservatives. It also provides a basic understanding that will be useful when interacting with toxicologists responsible for preservative safety evaluations. When obtaining efficacy information, the microbiologist should also specifically request data on toxicological testing that the manufacturer may have performed or have access to with regard to the preservative. The use of preservatives as chemicals and as ingredients in finished products is subject to stringent regulatory oversight in different regions. Since most cosmetic products are directly applied to the skin, a brief overview of skin anatomy and function is presented. The assessment of mutagenic and genotoxic potentials of preservative compounds has special relevance to cosmetic preservatives. Current toxicology utilizes the risk assessment paradigm described to develop sound risk assessment decisions that allow safe use of cosmetic preservatives.
