Phenoxyethanol

Phenoxyethanol

8.8

Ingredient Info

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that prevents bacteria, yeast, and mold from growing in skincare products, helping them stay fresh and safe to use. It has been used safely in cosmetics for decades and is effective at very low concentrations.



Benefits

  • Prevents microbial contamination and product spoilage
  • Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria and yeast
  • Minimal impact on beneficial skin bacteria when used at approved levels

Potential concerns

  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals
  • May cause irritation if used in products at concentrations above 1%

Science: The European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety considers phenoxyethanol safe for all consumers, including children, at concentrations up to 1%. Adverse effects observed in animal studies required exposure levels approximately 200 times higher than those in cosmetic products, and it is classified as one of the most well-tolerated preservatives in cosmetics.



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