Understanding Phenoxyethanol: The Preservative Power Behind Our Serums
As we continue to explore the world of beauty and skincare, you may have come across the term "phenoxyethanol" listed as an ingredient in your favourite serums and moisturisers but also as a topic of controversy in the 'clean beauty sector'.
Why?
Well Phenoxyethanol is often a topic of debate in the clean beauty community, with some considering it a necessary and relatively safe preservative, while others view it as a potential toxin to avoid. While regulatory bodies like the FDA and EU Cosmetics Regulation deem it safe in concentrations up to 1%, critics argue that it can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even potential neurotoxic effects, particularly in infants. Many non-toxic beauty advocates raise concerns about its synthetic nature, linking it to endocrine disruption and long-term health risks, despite limited scientific evidence supporting these claims. Additionally, because phenoxyethanol is often used as a replacement for parabens, some argue that it still doesn’t align with the principles of truly “natural” or “clean” beauty. As a result, while many mainstream and even “green” beauty brands continue to use it for its effectiveness, those seeking completely non-toxic formulations often opt for products that use alternative preservation methods.
But what exactly is phenoxyethanol, and why do we use it in our products?
Phenoxyethanol is a naturally derived preservative used in a wide range of cosmetic and skincare products. It’s a clear, colourless liquid with a mild floral scent, which makes it an ideal option for maintaining the integrity of skincare formulations. Often used in combination with other preservatives, phenoxyethanol is primarily used to extend the shelf life of products while ensuring they remain free from harmful bacteria, mould, and yeast.
How Phenoxyethanol Is Made?
Phenoxyethanol is a synthetic compound created through a chemical reaction between phenol (a naturally occurring aromatic compound) and ethylene oxide (a highly reactive gas used in industrial chemistry). This reaction produces 2-phenoxyethanol, a glycol ether that functions as a broad-spectrum preservative. It is designed to prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and mold in cosmetics, personal care products, and even pharmaceuticals. While it can technically be found in some natural sources (like green tea), the version used in cosmetics is synthetically produced for consistency, stability, and purity.
Why We Use Phenoxyethanol in Our Serums?
At its core, the main role of phenoxyethanol is to protect the product from contamination and degradation. In serums, which often contain water-based formulations, it’s particularly crucial to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms that could affect both the efficacy and safety of the product. Without preservatives, skincare products would have a much shorter shelf life and could become breeding grounds for bacteria.
Phenoxyethanol is highly effective in small concentrations, making it a great preservative choice for high-quality formulations. Unlike harsher alternatives, phenoxyethanol is gentle on the skin, so it won’t cause irritation or disrupt your skincare routine. It also provides a stable and reliable solution for keeping your serums fresh and safe, from the moment they’re manufactured to when they’re used in your daily regimen.
The Safe Percentage in Cosmetics Phenoxyethanol is allowed in cosmetic formulations, but there are strict guidelines around how much can be used. The maximum allowable concentration of phenoxyethanol in cosmetics, as set by the European Commission, is 1%. This means that when you apply a product containing phenoxyethanol, you're using it in a safe and regulated amount, ensuring you get the benefits of a preserved, effective product without any risks. At our brand, we adhere to these guidelines, using phenoxyethanol in our serums and we use less than 1% of Phenoxyethanol in our serums and other skincare products combining it with Vitamin E and Potassium Sorbate - both considered some of the safest and commonly used preservatives.
We found this to be the optimal concentration to ensure both safety and effectiveness. We believe in creating products that not only deliver visible results but also prioritise your well-being.
Benefits of Phenoxyethanol in Our Serums 1.
Effective Preservation: Phenoxyethanol prevents the growth of microorganisms that could spoil the product, ensuring your serum stays fresh and safe to use for longer.
2. Gentle on Skin: Unlike some other preservatives, phenoxyethanol is considered less likely to cause irritation or sensitivities, making it suitable for most skin types.
3. Stability: It helps maintain the stability of formulations, ensuring the active ingredients in your serum stay potent and effective throughout its shelf life.
4. Versatile: This ingredient is compatible with a variety of other ingredients, making it an ideal preservative for a wide range of skincare formulations, including those with complex active ingredients.
Conclusion When it comes to skincare, we know that you want products that not only work but are also safe and effective. Phenoxyethanol plays an important role in preserving the integrity of our serums, ensuring they deliver the benefits you expect with every use. By carefully selecting preservatives like phenoxyethanol, we can offer you products that are both effective and trustworthy, giving you the confidence to continue your skincare journey with us. So next time you reach for your serum, rest assured that the addition of phenoxyethanol is there to protect and preserve your product—keeping your skin care routine as fresh and effective as the day you first opened it.