Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin: Effective Preservative

CAS Number               122-99-6,   70445-33-9

INCI Name                  Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin

Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin are two popular ingredients used in cosmetic formulations. Phenoxyethanol serves as a preservative, protecting products from bacterial and fungal growth, and is typically safe in concentrations up to 1%. However, it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals. Ethylhexyl glycerin is a skin-conditioning agent with mild moisturizing properties. It also enhances the effectiveness of preservatives, making it a common addition to personal care products. Both ingredients are widely used in products like lotions, shampoos, and serums, where preservation and skin benefits are essential.

Purpose

The primary purpose of Phenoxyethanol is to act as a preservative, preventing microbial growth in cosmetic and personal care products, thus extending their shelf life. Ethylhexyl Glycerin serves as a skin-conditioning agent and works to enhance the effectiveness of other preservatives, while also providing moisturizing benefits. Together, they help ensure product safety, longevity, and skin compatibility.

Origin

Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin originate from synthetic sources and derive primarily from petrochemicals. While Ethylhexylglycerin can come from natural glycerin, the overall formulation of Plantaserve E relies on petrochemical derivatives, especially for synthesizing Phenoxyethanol. This combination preserves cosmetics while providing skin-conditioning benefits.

Preservative Function (Phenoxyethanol):

Phenoxyethanol is a widely used preservative in cosmetics because of its ability to inhibit the growth of a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and yeast. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and longevity of cosmetic products by preventing microbial contamination that could lead to product spoilage. Typically used at concentrations of up to 1%, it is effective in water-based products like creams, lotions, and shampoos, where water content makes them more susceptible to microbial growth. The preservative works by disrupting the cell membranes of microbes, rendering them inactive. This ability allows products to remain safe for use over extended periods, reducing the risk of irritation or infection from contaminated products.

Moisturizing Properties (Ethylhexylglycerin):

Ethylhexylglycerin is a gentle skin-conditioning agent with moisturizing benefits. As a humectant, it attracts moisture to the skin and helps maintain hydration, keeping the skin soft, smooth, and plump. Unlike other emollients, Ethylhexylglycerin is less greasy, which makes it ideal for use in products where a light, non-oily finish is preferred. It is commonly used in facial creams, deodorants, and serums to enhance skin texture and hydration. In addition to its moisturizing properties, Ethylhexylglycerin also has mild soothing effects that help reduce skin irritation, making it suitable for sensitive or dry skin. The ingredient contributes to the overall comfort and feel of cosmetic formulations, providing a balance of moisture without leaving a heavy or oily residue.

Enhanced Preservation (Synergistic Effect):

The combination of phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin enhances the preservative system in cosmetic products, making it more efficient and reliable. Ethylhexylglycerin acts as a preservative booster, enhancing the antimicrobial properties of Phenoxyethanol. This synergy allows for the preservation of products with lower concentrations of preservatives, reducing the need for additional, potentially harsh chemicals. The enhanced preservative system helps to prevent microbial contamination, ensuring that the product remains safe and stable over time. It is particularly beneficial for water-based products, which are more vulnerable to bacteria, mold, and yeast. By strengthening the preservation process, this combination ensures that cosmetic products retain their effectiveness and safety throughout their shelf life.

Skin-Friendly (Gentle Formulation):

Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin are generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetics, even for those with sensitive skin. When used at the recommended concentrations, they do not pose significant risks of irritation or sensitization, making them suitable for formulations intended for delicate or sensitive skin. Phenoxyethanol, despite being synthetic, is less likely to cause adverse reactions compared to some harsher preservatives, such as parabens or formaldehyde donors. Ethylhexylglycerin, being a mild moisturizer, also contributes to skin comfort by reducing dryness and maintaining hydration. The overall combination of these ingredients helps create cosmetic products that are gentle yet effective, making them appropriate for a wide range of skin types, including those prone to irritation.

Broad Compatibility (Versatile in Formulations):

Phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin are highly versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of cosmetic and personal care products without compromising performance. Their compatibility with both water-based and oil-based formulations makes them an ideal choice for manufacturers who want flexibility in product development. Whether in lotions, creams, shampoos, deodorants, or serums, they can work effectively without altering the texture, scent, or appearance of the final product. This versatility also means that they can be used in a range of cosmetic categories, from skincare to hair care, while maintaining product integrity. Their ability to work across multiple types of formulations simplifies the production process for cosmetic manufacturers and helps ensure consistency across different product lines.

Stabilization of Active Ingredients:

One of the key benefits of Ethylhexylglycerin is its role in stabilizing other active ingredients within a formulation. Many active ingredients, such as antioxidants, vitamins, and botanicals, can degrade when exposed to light, air, or heat. Ethylhexylglycerin helps prevent this degradation by acting as a stabilizing agent, ensuring that these ingredients remain effective throughout the shelf life of the product. By preserving the integrity of active ingredients, it ensures that the product continues to deliver the intended benefits, such as anti-aging effects, hydration, or skin healing, without loss of efficacy. This stabilization is crucial in maintaining the overall quality and performance of cosmetics, especially in products that contain sensitive ingredients requiring protection from environmental factors.

Applications:

• Skin Care Products:
  Used in moisturizers, serums, and facial creams, these ingredients help preserve product integrity while also providing skin conditioning benefits. They maintain hydration without leaving a greasy residue, making them ideal for daily skincare routines.
• Hair Care Products:
  In shampoos, conditioners, and hair serums, they offer antimicrobial protection and stability for formulas, ensuring they remain safe from microbial contamination and perform effectively over time.
• Body Care Products:
  These ingredients are commonly used in body lotions, deodorants, and body oils. They enhance the shelf life of these formulations by preventing bacteria and mold growth, all while providing soothing and moisturizing effects on the skin.
• Makeup and Cosmetics:
  In makeup products like foundations, mascaras, and lipsticks, they act as preservatives to extend product shelf life and prevent microbial contamination, ensuring the cosmetics remain safe and effective.
• Sun Care Products:
  Used in sunscreens and tanning lotions, they help protect these products from microbial growth, ensuring they maintain their integrity under the sun’s harsh conditions.
• Baby Care Products:
  Due to their gentle formulation, these ingredients are used in baby lotions, wipes, and diaper creams. They help protect delicate skin from irritation while offering preservative protection in a sensitive and safe manner.
• Personal Care Products:
  These ingredients are also found in products like hand sanitizers, facial cleansers, and shaving creams. They help maintain product stability while providing soothing benefits, especially for products used frequently on the skin.