PRIMEGUARD PE
Phenoxyethanol (99%)
Preservative and Stabilizer - Cosmetic Grade
Prime Guard PE is a cosmetic-grade preservative primarily composed of phenoxyethanol, a widely used antimicrobial agent in personal care formulations. It offers broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, yeasts, molds, and fungi, making it effective in preserving various cosmetic products.
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.
Applications of Prime Guard PE:
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Shampoos and Shower Gels (Rinse-off Products): Ensures product safety and extends shelf life by preventing microbial growth.
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Creams and Lotions (Leave-on Products): Maintains product integrity and protects against contamination.
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Emulsions (O/W and W/O): Stabilizes oil-in-water and water-in-oil formulations by inhibiting microbial proliferation.
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Wet Wipes: Preserves moisture and prevents microbial contamination in pre-moistened towelettes.
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Eye and Lip Care Products: Suitable for sensitive applications, ensuring safety and longevity.
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Oral Care Products: Maintains hygiene and extends shelf life in products like mouthwashes and toothpaste.
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Children's Products: Safe for use in formulations intended for children under 3 years old.
Benefits of Using Prime Guard PE:
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Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Activity: Effective against a wide range of microorganisms, ensuring comprehensive preservation.
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Paraben-Free: Suitable for formulations seeking to avoid parabens.
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Formaldehyde-Free: Ideal for products requiring the exclusion of formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.
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Versatility: Compatible with various cosmetic formulations, including both aqueous and emulsion-based systems.
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Effective pH Range: Functions optimally within a pH range of 3 to 9, accommodating a broad spectrum of cosmetic products.
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Usage Concentration: Typically used at concentrations up to 1%, adhering to regulatory standards.
In summary, Prime Guard PE serves as an effective preservative solution for a wide array of personal care products, ensuring microbial stability and extending shelf life while aligning with consumer preferences for paraben- and formaldehyde-free formulations.
Formulation Guidance
pH (effective range): 3 – 9
Solubility (water): 0.6%
Solubility (glycols): Fully soluble
Maximum process temperature: 80°C
Primeguard PE 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.