Phenoxyethanol

Preservative used to prevent microbial growth in cosmetic products. Phenoxyethanol functions as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative in cosmetic formulations. It primarily acts by disrupting the cell membranes of bacteria, yeasts, and molds, leading to the leakage of essential intracellular components and inhibition of enzyme systems vital for microbial growth and reproduction, thereby preventing product spoilage and contamination.

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed phenoxyethanol as safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 1%. It is generally well-tolerated, but rare cases of contact dermatitis and allergic sensitization have been reported in susceptible individuals, particularly on compromised skin.

Look for products with 0.5-1.0% (most formulas use 0.5-1.0%, with 1.0% being the maximum allowed concentration in regions like the EU and Japan). for clinical efficacy.