ISO 21148:2017 gives general instructions for carrying out microbiological examinations of cosmetic products, in order to ensure their quality and safety, in accordance with an appropriate risk analysis (e.g. low water activity, hydro-alcoholic, extreme pH values).

Because of the large variety of products and potential uses within this field of application, these instructions might not be appropriate for some products in every detail (e.g. certain water-immiscible products).