This paper describes a simple, rapid and easy to operate method for selective determination of trace mercury ions (Hg2+) in cosmetics using a screen-printed silver electrode (AgSPE) coupled with flow injection analysis. It was found that the AgSPE exhibits an inhibitory peak for oxidation of iodide in the presence of Hg2+ with a relatively fast response time, high selectivity, and reproducibility. The linear working range for the determination of Hg2+ is 0.125 ppm to 50 ppm with a correlation coefficient (r(2)) of 0.999. The limit of detection (LOD, S/N = 3) is 18 ppb. This approach was further utilized to analyze Hg2+ in selected cosmetics. The results of this method were consistent with results obtained from atomic fluorescent mercury analysis, which demonstrates the applicability of this method for the detection of mercury within the stipulated guidelines for cosmetics. (C) 2014 The Electrochemical Society. All rights reserved.