Determination of sunscreen agents by micellar electrokinetic chromatography

The separation of UV-A and UV-B sunscreens by micellar electrokinetic chromatography has been studied. The optimized method, which involves the presence of an anionic surfactant (sodium dodecyl sulphate) and an organic modifier in the background electrolyte, was applied to determine these sunscreens in cosmetic products. Identification was achieved by "on-line" UV spectra. Recovery was in the range of 88-92% and the lower limit of detection was 0.15 mg ml-1.