Is phenoxyethanol a natural preservative?

Phenoxyethanol (PE) is a preservative found naturally occurring in green tea and chicory. For commercial purposes, phenoxyethanol has been synthetically re-created in a laboratory. This is known as making a “nature identical” chemical.

Is phenoxyethanol naturally derived?

Phenoxyethanol can be found naturally in green tea, but the commercial ingredient is synthetically produced in a laboratory, creating what’s termed a “nature identical” chemical.

Is phenoxyethanol preservative safe?

Is phenoxyethanol safe? Yes, phenoxyethanol is safe. According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review, when used in concentrations of 1% or less, phenoxyethanol in skin care is safe. This is also the same standard the European Commission on Health and Food Safety uses as well.

What type of preservative is phenoxyethanol?

What is phenoxyethanol? Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used in many cosmetics and personal care products. You may have a cabinet full of products containing this ingredient in your home, whether you know it or not. Chemically, phenoxyethanol is known as a glycol ether, or in other words, a solvent.

Which is worse parabens or phenoxyethanol?

Phenoxyethanol is a synthetic preservative that can be found in a wide range of skincare products. And while it’s considered by some to be safer than parabens, this preservative has its good and bad points like any chemical.

Is phenoxyethanol plant based?

Phenoxyethanol is an oily, colourless, slightly viscous liquid with a faint floral scent. It’s a natural component of chicory and green tea. However, the phenoxyethanol in most cosmetics is synthetically produced in a laboratory rather than plant derived.

Is phenoxyethanol the same as 2-phenoxyethanol?

Phenoxyethanol (CAS n. 122-99-6) is an ether and aromatic alcohol, which is also known as 2-phenoxyethanol, ethylene glycol monophenyl ether, phenoxytol, 1-hydroxy-2-phenoxyethane and (2-hydroxyethoxy) benzene.

How does phenoxyethanol work as a preservative?

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative used in cosmetics and personal care products. It is a biocide which is most active against Gram-negative bacteria. In surfactant solution systems, the water must be saturated with Phenoxyethanol for activity. If the level is too low, it acts as a nutrient for bacteria.