Why we use Phenoxyethanol

↓ skip to summary

Preservatives in Cosmetics

Without proper preservation, cosmetics can quickly become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria, yeast, and mold. Contaminated products can lead to skin irritation, infections, and reduced product efficacy. Phenoxyethanol is a globally approved preservative that prevents microbial growth, ensuring cosmetic formulations remain safe, effective, and free from harmful contaminants throughout their shelf life.

Why Phenoxyethanol Deserves Your Trust

Although some consumers have concerns about phenoxyethanol, the real risk arises when preservatives are not used at all. Without effective preservation, cosmetic products can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mould, posing serious health risks. Extensive regulatory reviews confirm that when used at permitted concentrations, phenoxyethanol is both safe and essential for product stability.

As a well-researched preservative, phenoxyethanol remains one of the most effective and reliable options for maintaining product integrity and consumer safety.¹ The European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) concluded that phenoxyethanol is safe for all consumers, including children of all ages, when used as a preservative at concentrations up to 1%. Adverse systemic effects observed in animal studies occurred only at exposure levels approximately 200 times higher than those encountered in cosmetic use. Furthermore, despite its widespread application, phenoxyethanol is considered a rare sensitiser and is among the most well-tolerated preservatives in cosmetic products²

Debunking Phenoxyethanol Myths

In the world of cosmetic ingredients, more research often leads to more misconceptions. Because phenoxyethanol is well studied, there is an extensive amount of data available about its safety and effects. However, the presence of more data does not mean higher risk—in fact, it’s the opposite. The more research an ingredient has, the more its safety profile is understood and regulated. Despite this, misinterpretations of studies and regulatory decisions have led to persistent myths about phenoxyethanol. Below, we break down the most common misconceptions and provide science-backed explanations of why this preservative remains a trusted and effective ingredient in cosmetic formulations.

Myth 1: Phenoxyethanol Causes Severe Allergic Reactions

While any substance can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, phenoxyethanol is considered one of the most well-tolerated preservatives in cosmetics. Reports of allergic reactions, such as contact urticaria, are rare. Studies have shown that even at concentrations up to 2% (well above the regulated limit of 1%), phenoxyethanol is well-tolerated on human skin, including in premature neonates.³

Myth 2: Phenoxyethanol is an Endocrine Disruptor

Concerns have been raised about phenoxyethanol's potential as an endocrine disruptor. However, current scientific evidence does not support this claim. Comprehensive reviews and studies have not demonstrated any endocrine-disrupting effects associated with phenoxyethanol at the concentrations used in cosmetics.²

Myth 3: Phenoxyethanol is Contaminated with Carcinogenic Byproducts

Some sources suggest that phenoxyethanol may contain harmful contaminants like 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide due to its manufacturing process. While these contaminants can be byproducts in the production of certain ethoxylated compounds, reputable manufacturers adhere to strict purification processes to ensure that phenoxyethanol used in cosmetics meets safety standards and is free from harmful levels of contaminants.²

Myth 4: Phenoxyethanol is Unsafe for Infants

A 2008 FDA warning highlighted concerns about a specific nipple cream containing phenoxyethanol, which was found to cause central nervous system depression in infants. It's important to note that this warning pertained to a product intended for application on the mother's body, where infants could ingest the substance. In contrast, the use of phenoxyethanol in topical cosmetic products at concentrations up to 1% has been deemed safe for all age groups, including children.²

In summary, phenoxyethanol is a safe and effective preservative when used within recommended concentrations in cosmetic products. Misinformation has led to unwarranted fears, but scientific evidence supports its continued use in ensuring product safety and longevity.

references

1 OPINION ON Phenoxyethanol. (2016). 16 Feb 2025 from OPINION ON Phenoxyethanol.
2 Dréno B, Zuberbier T, Gelmetti C, Gontijo G, Marinovich M. Safety review of phenoxyethanol when used as a preservative in cosmetics. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2019 Nov;33 Suppl 7:15-24. doi: 10.1111/jdv.15944. PMID: 31588615. Safety review of phenoxyethanol when used as a preservative in cosmetics.

Phenoxyethanol. (2021, August 11). Lorealdermatologicalbeauty.com. 16 Feb 2025 from Phenoxyethanol.

explore more

Hyperpigmentation · Exfoliating · Stimulating · Acne-Prone

Mandelic Acid

An alpha hydroxy acid from bitter almonds that excels at treating the appearance of hyperpigmentation and acne.

read →

Barrier Support

Ethyl Oleate

Ethyl Oleate is an ultra-light vitamin F fatty acid ester formed by the condensation of oleic acid and…

read →

Dimethyl Isosorbide

A biobased solvent and carrier. It solubilizes difficult to dissolve ingredients (like salicylic acid) without allowing them to…

read →

Anti-Redness + Sensitivity · Anti-Wrinkle + Laxity · Hydrating · Barrier Support · Stimulating

sh-Polypeptide-11

sh-Polypeptide-11 (aFGF) is a synthetic peptide that stimulates fibroblast proliferation, enhances collagen synthesis, and accelerates skin regeneration. It…

read →