LimsPulse
Cosmetics testing

Texture analyser

Moves a probe into, through or away from a sample at a controlled speed and records the force with a load cell. The force–distance curve gives firmness, spreadability, adhesiveness, hardness and break strength of creams, gels, lipsticks and powders.

  • Cosmetics & personal care
  • Food
  • Pharmaceutical semi-solids
  • Adhesives
  • Packaging
Photo of a Texture analyser
Photo: Altair666, CC BY-SA 4.0 (cropped), via Wikimedia Commons
Follow your site SOP
This is a typical operating sequence for learning. Your instrument model and approved SOP take precedence.
STAGE 1

Before you start

  1. 1Check the force and distance calibration is in date.
  2. 2Fit the load cell and probe given in the method and tighten them securely.
  3. 3Run the force calibration routine with the certified weight and the height calibration routine as the manual describes.
  4. 4Condition samples to the test temperature (often 25 °C) for a set time, typically several hours.
  • Never exceed the load cell capacity. Set a force limit in the software to stop the arm before overload.
STAGE 2

Sample preparation

  1. 1Fill the container to a fixed height with a spatula, avoiding air pockets; level the surface.
  2. 2Let the sample rest for the recovery time in the method so that structure rebuilds after filling.
  3. 3For lipsticks, wind out a set length and mount it in the fixture.
  • Keep filling technique identical for every sample. Squeezing or stirring a thixotropic cream lowers its firmness.
STAGE 3

Test

  1. 1Centre the sample under the probe.
  2. 2Start the test: pre-test speed, trigger force, test speed and distance as per the method (for example 2 mm/s to 10 mm depth).
  3. 3Repeat on the number of replicates required (often 3–5).
  4. 4Clean the probe between tests with a lint-free tissue.
  • Keep hands clear of the moving arm during a test.
STAGE 4

Results and shutdown

  1. 1Check each curve for odd shapes (air bubbles, slipping, wall effects).
  2. 2Report mean and %RSD of firmness, work and adhesiveness as specified.
  3. 3Clean probes and fixtures, return the arm to the home position and log use.
In LimsPulse · Calibration Management

Keep every Texture analyser in control: usage logs, calibration and maintenance schedules, and automatic blocking of overdue instruments.

See how