Skin care treatments, shampoos, fluid cleanses, eyeliners, and makeup all include phenoxyethanol as a preservative. It’s what we call a middle preservative because it’s not the greatest. However, you may now buy solutions that contain more synthetic chemicals. It has grown easier to avoid this substance.
What is Phenoxyethanol, and how does it work?
Phenoxyethanol (PE) is an organic common ingredient found in green tea and celeriac. Phenoxyethanol has been synthesized re-created in a facility for commercial uses. Making a “nature identical” chemical is referred to as this. Phenoxyethanol is a transparent, colourless, and chemically inert liquid with antibacterial properties towards germs, yeast strains, and mould. So, is Phenoxyethanol included in skin care products “all natural”? Theoretically, no, but there’s more to know.
Is Phenoxyethanol Healthy to Use in Skin Treatment Products?
In the EU and Japan, phenoxyethanol can be used in skin products at a level of 1% or less. It’s also been demonstrated to be a safely and effectively biocide when used in minute quantities, with no proof of developing cancer or interrupting hormone levels like Preservatives. And, according to a study conducted, phenoxyethanol is the safest preservative for use in a new-born intensive cares unit where disease prevention is a key concern.
So why has this antioxidant been designated as dubious by certain skin care product consumer advocates? Since it has the potential to trigger hypersensitivity or allergic responses in some individuals. However, these well-intentioned organizations overlook the reality that organic compounds can also trigger allergies.
The benefits of Phenoxyethanol
1. It inhibits the growth of microorganisms.
Despite how nasty it may sound; your cosmetics serve as the ideal home (and food) for hazardous germs. Liquid and organic/inorganic substances, which are contained in almost every item, are responsible for this.
2. It helps to keep items stable.
Phenoxyethanol is suitable with a wide range of different preservatives, adding that it is unaffected by light or air. As a result, it’s employed to keep your item consistent by keeping components from trying to break down or splitting. Furthermore, phenoxyethanol is stable over a wide pH range, thus it can be used in several recipes.
3. It increases the longevity of your goods on the shelf.
Phenoxyethanol is often used as a preservative to prolong the life cycle of the product. Its antibacterial and stabilising characteristics keep the compound from spoiling, which would make it useless—and perhaps dangerous. This extends the amount of time you may use the item without experiencing any problems.