Phenoxyethanol is a preservative for use in cosmetics, such as shampoo and cream. It protects the product from spoilage by micro-organisms such as bacteria. It is also a fragrance compound for use in perfumes, for example.

Use

Preservative

The use of phenoxyethanol is very simple: mix with the other ingredients of the formula and its ready; heating is not necessary.

Use about 0.8-1% in the finished product. In professional cosmetics, the maximum dose is 1%, we recommend not to exceed this. With some surfactants, for example Detergent (SLES), the maximum soluble amount is required for sufficient effect.

Fragrance

The scent is somewhere between freesia and rose: the light freshness of the rose but also the flowery of the freesia. It is a stable fragrance that can also be used in soap.

Properties

Phenoxyethanol is a colourless to slightly yellow liquid at room temperature. The compound has a long shelf life: store it cool, dry, dark and keep it in the tightly closed packaging. Phenoxyethanol is especially active against bacteria, especially Gram-negative bacteria. It is volatile, which also protects the empty space in the packaging against decay.

Because it does not sufficiently protect against all types of microorganisms, it is necessary to combine this substance with others to obtain sufficient protection.

Durability

Phenoxyethanol is currently mostly made from petrochemical raw materials and is therefore not renewable. It breaks down quickly: only in the recommended relatively high concentration is it harmful to micro-organisms. When diluted, on the other hand, it is quickly eaten by them.

Packaging

The 10 and 50 ml packaging consists of a glass bottle with a black closure. The 250 g and 1 kg packaging consist of an aluminum bottle with a stopper and cap.

Hazards

Phenoxyethanol is classified as a hazardous substance, with the following characteristics:

WARNING
H302 - Harmful if swallowed.
H319 - Causes serious eye irritation.

Codes

Article number: 10309
Dutch name: Fenoxyethanol
EC number: 204-589-7
CAS number EU: 122-99-6
CAS-number TSCA: 122-99-6
INCI: PHENOXYETHANOL