1. Description
Purpose: Visual inspection ensures the product is homogeneous, clear or uniformly opaque, and free from suspended matter or sediment.
Why it matters: It checks the aesthetic appeal and indicates if the product has separated or deteriorated.

2. pH Value
Purpose: Measures the acidity or alkalinity of the lotion.
Why it matters: Ensures it is within a skin-friendly range (typically around pH 4.5 to 6.5). Extreme pH can cause skin irritation.

3. Alcohol Content
Purpose: Measures the percentage of ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol.
Why it matters: Alcohol acts as an antiseptic and provides a cooling sensation. The level needs to be balanced – too much can cause dryness or irritation, too little may reduce efficacy.

4. Non-volatile Matter
Purpose: Determines the residues left after evaporation.
Why it matters: This includes moisturizers, perfumes, and conditioners. Ensures they are present in proper amounts for skin care benefits.

5. Foaming Test
Purpose: Checks if the lotion produces excessive foam.
Why it matters: After-shave lotions are not supposed to foam like soaps. Excessive foam indicates improper formulation.

6. Stability Test
Purpose: Examines product behaviour under various temperature and light conditions.
Why it matters: Ensures the lotion remains stable and does not degrade or separate under storage conditions.

7. Heavy Metals (as Pb)
Purpose: Measures the level of toxic heavy metals like lead.
Why it matters: These can be harmful even in small amounts. Testing ensures the product is safe for prolonged skin contact.

8. Arsenic Content
Purpose: Measures the presence of arsenic compounds.
Why it matters: Arsenic is a known toxin, and its presence in cosmetics is tightly regulated for safety.

9. Microbial Test / Total Bacterial Count
Purpose: Checks for the presence of harmful microorganisms.
Why it matters: It ensures the product is microbiologically safe, especially since it’s applied to freshly shaved skin (which may have micro cuts).