Phenethyl alcohol, Preservative 1 l

Phenethyl alcohol is a clear, colorless liquid with a floral odor that is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products as a preservative. The production of phenethyl alcohol is possible by several methods, including chemical synthesis and extraction from plants such as roses and jasmine.

Phenethyl alcohol is effective against bacteria, fungi and viruses, which makes it a popular alternative to synthetic preservatives. In cosmetic products, phenethyl alcohol serves not only as an antimicrobial component, but it can also partially mask unpleasant odors and scents.

Phenethyl alcohol is considered a safe ingredient for use in skin care and hair care products. It is non-irritating, which makes it a suitable choice for those with sensitive skin. In addition, it is non-comedogenic, which means that it clogs pores only minimally and therefore does not induce the formation of acne. Phenethyl alcohol is also a vegan and halal raw material.

The solubility of phenethyl alcohol in water is limited (2 ml/100 ml of water); it is ideal to add it to emulsions during the cooling phase (below 40 °C), as it is a temperature-sensitive preservative.

The pH of the product should be below 6 for correct preservative efficacy.

Dosage: 0.25–0.75 %, max 1 %.