SimpleLab Logo
Articles

How to Test Cosmetics for Anaerobic Plate Count (AnPC)

Samantha Bear, MS
Human created content
5 min read
First published
September 24, 2025
Last updated
September 24, 2025

Concerned about bacteria in cosmetics or personal care products? SimpleLab’s Cosmetic Bacteria Test Kit measures Anaerobic Plate Count (AnPC) in a single product sample such as sunscreen, hand sanitizer, deodorant, antiperspirant, or shampoo. This certified lab test ensures you get clear, accurate results on potential bacterial contamination.

How Do You Test Cosmetics for Anaerobic Bacteria?

The most reliable way to measure bacteria in cosmetics is through a mail-to-lab test kit. 

SimpleLab’s AnPC kit includes:

  • Sterile sampling materials
  • Prepaid 2-day return shipping
  • Testing at an accredited lab. 

Analysis follows FDA BAM Chapter 3 methods and reports bacterial counts in CFU/g (colony-forming units per gram) with a detection limit as low as 10. You’ll receive a digital report within about seven (7) business days of the lab receiving your sample.

Who Should Use this Cosmetic Bacteria Test Kit?

This kit is designed for:

  • Cosmetic manufacturers
  • Product formulators
  • Formulation and quality control teams
  • Individuals who need to confirm product safety and quality.

Whether you’re checking a batch before market release or testing a personal product for contamination:

Anaerobic Plate Count Cosmetics Test
Analytes tested: 1
$133.00

Frequently Asked Questions

Why test for anaerobic bacteria in cosmetics?

Anaerobic bacteria can survive and multiply in oxygen-free environments such as lotions, creams, or gels. High counts may indicate contamination that affects product safety and stability.

Are DIY test strips reliable?

No. At-home strips cannot accurately measure bacteria in cosmetics. Only a certified laboratory can provide precise counts of microbial contamination.

How long does testing take?

Shipping takes 2 days, and lab results are usually available 7 business days after sample receipt.

What will my results show?

Your report provides the measured anaerobic plate count (CFU/g) and the detection limits used in testing. The test cannot specify the exact strains of bacteria nor whether potential pathogens were present in the sample.

Questions? Contact Us

SimpleLab makes lab testing easy, accurate, and accessible.

 

If you have any questions about testing with SimpleLab, reach out to our customer support team any time.

The SimpleLab Standard

  1. Proven Reliability: SimpleLab partners with North America's leading analytical institutions—including Eurofins, Pace Analytical, SGS, and Microbac—each with their own rigorous quality control protocols to ensure top-tier accuracy. Our certified labs are located across all 50 states, making logistics a breeze.

  2. Simplified Sampling: Every kit includes professional-grade materials, clear instructions, automated chain of custody, and free return shipping— making accurate testing effortless.

  3. Seamless Experience: We combine human support with automated logistics to help make complex lab analyses accessible to all. From our user interface to our lab reports, we ensure a time-saving, frustration-free process.

Samantha Bear, MS

Senior Research Scientist

In her role as the Senior Research Scientist at SimpleLab, Samantha leverages her expertise in water chemistry and engineering to ensure that all SimpleLab and Tap Score products and communications are held to the highest scientific standards. Samantha has Bachelor's and Master's degrees in environmental engineering and five years of laboratory research experience in environmental analytical chemistry. In her free time, Samantha can be found out running trails, sitting in a coffee shop or hanging out with her dogs.

Back to top