Traditional high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) methods are not typically used for characterization of silicones, due to a lack of absorption in the ultraviolet (UV) region of the spectrum. However, many additives in water-based, silicone formulations absorb in the UV and can be quantified using an HPLC method. Direct injection of a silicone emulsion can lead to irreversible deposition of siloxane polymer on an HPLC column and should be avoided.