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Phenoxyethanol: Cosmetic Use Limit and Preservative Blends

Phenoxyethanol
Phenoxyethanol
Product definition
Phenoxyethanol is an alcohol ether compound produced by etherification of phenol and ethylene oxide. It exhibits good stability and compatibility. With its broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, low irritation, and mild odor, it is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products and is one of the mainstream mild preservatives.

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Product Functional Category and Applications
1. Daily chemical and cleaning products
Phenoxyethanol, as a broad-spectrum preservative and solvent, is widely used in detergents, cleaning agents, and personal care formulations, where it can effectively inhibit microbial growth and improve system stability.
2. Cosmetics Industry
It is used as a preservative and solubilizer, suitable for products such as face creams, lotions, shampoos, and wet wipes. It is characterized by its mildness, low irritation, and strong compatibility.
3. Pharmaceutical field
It is used in topical preparations and disinfectant products to exert antibacterial and preservative effects, ensuring product safety and shelf life.
4. Industrial Applications
It is used as a corrosion inhibitor and stabilizer in coatings, inks, and industrial cleaning agents to extend the product's shelf life.
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Product Summary
Nonproprietary Names : Phenoxyethanol
Other names: Phenoxyethanol
CAS Registry Number: 122-99-6
EINECS NumberEINECS Registry Number: 204-589-7
Molecular Formula: C8H10O2
Molecular Weight: 138.16
Structural Formula:

Synonyms: 2-Phenoxyethanol; Ethylene glycol monophenyl ether; Phenoxetol
Product technical specifications and MSDS

Appearance

Colorless and transparent liquid

Content, %

≥ 99.5

Phenol, ppm

≤ 200

Color, Hazen

≤10.0

Moisture content, w/%

≤ 0.1 0

For specific product specifications and MSDS,please contact the product manager.

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Product Packaging and Storage
Packaging: Drum , 25kg/ drum
Storage conditions: Store in a sealed container at room temperature , away from moisture and light.
Shelf life: 2 years
常见问题 (Frequently Asked Questions)

1% limit, blend systems and processing conditions

What is the use limit of phenoxyethanol in cosmetics?

The Chinese Safety and Technical Standards for Cosmetics and the EU Cosmetics Regulation both list phenoxyethanol as a permitted preservative at a maximum of 1.0%. Most formulas use 0.3% to 0.8%, and blends allow a lower dose.

Why is phenoxyethanol usually blended with ethylhexylglycerin?

Phenoxyethanol is strong against bacteria but weaker against mould and yeast. Ethylhexylglycerin increases cell membrane permeability and boosts the overall effect, which is the basis of the common 9:1 blend. Pairing with 1,2-hexanediol or pentanediol works the same way.

What pH range does phenoxyethanol work in?

It is stable from pH 3 to 10, a wider range than parabens or organic acid preservatives, which is one reason it became a general-purpose preservative.

How should phenoxyethanol be added during processing?

It is a liquid at room temperature and can be added to the water phase or after emulsification. High temperature increases evaporation loss, so add below 45 °C and mix well.

Where can I confirm the current specification?

This page is a product information note. Assay, packaging and the applicable standard follow the current datasheet from sales, which you can request through the enquiry form.

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