Phenoxyethanol
Pronunciation /feh-NOX-ee-ETH-uh-nawl/
What it is — A synthetic preservative used to keep cosmetic products from growing bacteria and mould.
What it does — Stops microbes from multiplying in the bottle. EU caps it at 1% by weight.
What is it?
2-Phenoxyethanol
What does it do?
Phenoxyethanol is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
-
Antimicrobial
kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms
-
Preservative
prevents microbial growth in cosmetic products, extending shelf life and protecting users
Often found in
- water-based products
- creams
- serums
- wet wipes
- shampoos
Good to know
One of the gentler synthetic preservatives. Common alternatives: ethylhexylglycerin, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate. Some people are sensitive — patch-test if you've reacted to it before.
EU regulatory status
Phenoxyethanol is listed in Annex V of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 as a substance permitted for the corresponding category of use.
Frequently asked questions
What is Phenoxyethanol?
Phenoxyethanol is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. 2-Phenoxyethanol
Is Phenoxyethanol allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Phenoxyethanol is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Phenoxyethanol do in cosmetic products?
Phenoxyethanol is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antimicrobial, preservative.
What is the CAS number of Phenoxyethanol?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Phenoxyethanol is 122-99-6.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 28/07/2020