How to Test Cosmetics for Anaerobic Plate Count (AnPC)

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
$137.00
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.
Sam brings expertise in water chemistry and environmental engineering to support scientific standards at SimpleLab. She earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Environmental Engineering and has experience in environmental analytical chemistry research.
About SimpleLab
SimpleLab combines world-class laboratory science with customer service to ensure testing your environment is simple, fast and factual. Everything we do is driven by data and supported by a team of experts ready to answer your questions.





