Description

INCI Name: Phenoxyethanol
Chemical Name: 2-Phenoxyethanol
CAS No.: 122-99-6
EC No.: 204-589-7
Chemical Formula: C₈H₁₀O₂
Molecular Weight: 138.16 g/mol
Chemical Type: Aromatic glycol ether
Appearance: Clear, colorless, slightly viscous liquid
Odor: Mild characteristic odor
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; miscible/soluble with many organic solvents and commonly used cosmetic ingredients
Primary Function: Preservative / Antimicrobial ingredient

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

Phenoxyethanol is a widely used preservative ingredient for cosmetic and personal-care products. It helps control microbial contamination and contributes to maintaining product quality during storage and consumer use.

Its liquid form makes it convenient for use in many cosmetic systems, including emulsions, serums, cleansers, shampoos, conditioners and other water-containing formulations.

Phenoxyethanol is frequently used either alone or as part of a preservative blend with other antimicrobial ingredients to provide broader preservation performance.

Actual preservation effectiveness depends on the complete formulation, manufacturing hygiene, packaging and microbial challenge-test results.

6. Functions & Benefits

Preservative — Helps protect cosmetic formulations against microbial spoilage.

Antimicrobial Activity — Provides useful activity particularly against bacteria and contributes to overall preservation.

Product Protection — Helps maintain product quality throughout its intended shelf life and use period.

Versatile Application — Suitable for many leave-on and rinse-off cosmetic formulations.

Preservative-System Component — Can be combined with complementary preservation ingredients where broader antimicrobial protection is required.

One important point for your customers: adding Phenoxyethanol does not automatically prove that a formulation is adequately preserved. Finished products should undergo appropriate microbiological/challenge testing.

7. Applications

Face Cream • Body Cream • Lotion • Serum • Toner • Facial Cleanser • Body Wash • Liquid Soap • Shampoo • Conditioner • Hair Mask • Gel • Personal Care Products

8. Storage

Store in the original tightly closed container in a cool, dry and well-ventilated location.

Protect from excessive heat, contamination and incompatible materials.

Exact storage temperature and shelf life should follow the supplier’s TDS/SDS/COA.

9. Safety & Handling

For professional cosmetic and personal-care manufacturing use.

Avoid unnecessary eye and skin contact and follow appropriate industrial hygiene procedures during handling.

Use the supplier’s current SDS for PPE, first-aid, transport and bulk-handling requirements.

For regulatory claims and maximum permitted concentration, always check the rules applicable to the market where the finished cosmetic will be sold.

10. Documentation

COA: Available upon request
SDS/MSDS: Available upon request