PRIMEGUARD PEHG
Phenoxyethanol (90%) & Ethylhexylglycerin (10%)
Preservative and Stabilizer - Cosmetic Grade
Phenoxyethanol & Ethylhexylglycerin is a combination of two ingredients commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products, primarily as preservatives and stabilizers. They are commonly used together in cosmetic formulations to provide antimicrobial protection and to extend the shelf life of products, while maintaining gentleness on the skin.
Phenoxyethanol:
- What is it?: Phenoxyethanol is a synthetic preservative that is widely used in cosmetics, skincare, and personal care products to prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast. It is an ether alcohol derived from phenol and ethylene oxide.
- Function: Its main role is to protect cosmetic formulations from microbial contamination, extending the product’s shelf life.
- How it’s used: Phenoxyethanol is typically used in concentrations of 0.5% to 1% in formulations. It is compatible with many cosmetic ingredients, making it versatile for use in a wide range of products, including creams, lotions, shampoos, and makeup.
- Safety: It is generally considered safe in low concentrations, though some people with sensitive skin may experience irritation. It is also recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Union as a safe preservative when used within recommended limits.
Ethylhexylglycerin:
- What is it?: Ethylhexylglycerin is a synthetic compound derived from glycerin, often used as a preservative booster and skin-conditioning agent. It enhances the performance of other preservatives like phenoxyethanol, making them more effective at lower concentrations.
- Function: Ethylhexylglycerin works by inhibiting the growth of microbes and boosting the antimicrobial efficacy of preservatives. It also acts as a humectant and emollient, helping to improve skin softness and moisture retention.
- How it’s used: it is added to products to improve the overall preservation system. It’s found in products like lotions, serums, deodorants, and creams.
- Safety: Like phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin is considered safe when used at appropriate levels. It’s non-sensitizing and generally non-irritating, making it suitable for most skin types.
Combination of Phenoxyethanol & Ethylhexylglycerin:
- This combination is popular because ethylhexylglycerin enhances the effectiveness of phenoxyethanol, allowing for lower concentrations of preservatives in formulations, which is desirable in “clean beauty” and sensitive-skin-friendly products.
- Together, they ensure that products remain free from contamination without compromising skin safety. This combination is often found in skincare, haircare, and baby care products, where a gentle but effective preservative system is needed.
Key Uses:
- Preservative: Prevents bacterial and microbial growth in cosmetics, ensuring product safety.
- Humectant and Emollient: Helps retain moisture in the skin and provides a soft, smooth feel.
- Preservative Booster: Ethylhexylglycerin enhances the effectiveness of phenoxyethanol, allowing for a more efficient and mild preservation system.
Applications:
• Shampoo & shower gel (rinse-off)
• Creams & lotions (leave-on)
• O/W emulsions
• W/O emulsions
• Wet wipes
• Lip care
• Product for Children under 3
Use scenarios derived from evaluation of Cosmetic Regulation guidelines and preservative performance for typical formulations
Formulation Guidance
pH (effective range): 3 – 9
Solubility (water): 0.6%
Solubility (glycols): Fully soluble
Maximum process temperature: 80°C
Primeguard PEHG is compatible with most personal care ingredients. In aqueous formulations, heating to 40°C may be required in order to fully dissolve the preservative.
In use concentrations Recommendation EU Cosmetic Regulation (Max)
Leave-on 0.5 – 1.0% 1.11%
Rinse-off 0.5 – 1.0% 1.11%
In use concentrations vary according to the formulation type and other ingredients present. The correct use dosage should be determined by microbial challenge testing of the finished formulations.