An HPLC-UV method for the direct evaluation of N-nitrosodiethanolamine in some cosmetic products and raw materials

An HPLC-UV method for evaluating the possible contamination of cosmetic products and raw materials by N-nitrosodiethanolamine (NDELA) is described. The usual extraction process is eliminated and the risk introduced by various external factors is minimized. It is clearly shown that NDELA forms readily under certain conditions and that nitrite scavengers have an inhibitory effect on the formation of nitrosamines. Recommendations are made for improving the quality of cosmetic raw materials by testing them for nitrite and NDELA before use.