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Skincare Ingredient

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Phenoxyethanol

In Skincare: Is Phenoxyethanol Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects

Safety (overall safety)
2/5 — Low risk
Irritancy (skin irritation)
3/5 — Moderate risk

Safety Information

It is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products to prevent microbial growth. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated phenoxyethanol and concluded it is safe as a preservative in concentrations up to 1% in rinse-off products and up to 0.3% in leave-on products. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) rates it as a moderate concern due to potential for skin irritation and sensitization.

Quick Insights

At a glance

  • 01

    Phenoxyethanol is a widely approved synthetic preservative used in cosmetics at concentrations up to 1%.

  • 02

    This ingredient helps protect cosmetic formulations from a wide range of potentially harmful microorganisms.

  • 03

    Phenoxyethanol's safety has been evaluated through extensive research and assessments spanning several decades.

  • 04

    Phenoxyethanol is a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into various cosmetic formulations across a broad range of pH levels.

  • 05

    Skin sensitization to phenoxyethanol is uncommon, leading it to be considered a gentle preservative.

Overview

Ingredient Profile

Phenoxyethanol is a widely approved synthetic preservative used in cosmetics to prevent microbial growth and maintain product integrity. It functions effectively across a broad range of pH levels and formulations, offering protection against various bacteria, yeast, and mold. Safety assessments by expert panels have consistently deemed phenoxyethanol safe for use in cosmetic formulations at concentrations up to 1%, with studies demonstrating that any absorbed phenoxyethanol is rapidly metabolized and eliminated by the body. While all preservatives carry a potential risk of skin sensitization, phenoxyethanol is considered to have a low incidence of allergic reactions compared to many alternatives.
Classifications
Preservative

Data & Research

Scientific Facts

Phenoxyethanol is typically produced synthetically for commercial use, though it can also be found naturally in some plants, such as green tea.

Common Uses

Formulation in Phenoxyethanol

Phenoxyethanol prevents microbial growth – including bacteria, fungi, and yeast – in water-containing cosmetic products. This helps extend the product’s shelf life and maintains its quality, appearance, scent, and performance. Cosmetics can be exposed to microorganisms from the environment through contact with applicators and skin, which can lead to spoilage, discoloration, or undesirable odors. Preservatives like phenoxyethanol minimize these risks and ensure product safety and stability.

Role of Phenoxyethanol

Active Cosmetic Mechanisms

ANTIMICROBIAL

Germ Fighter

Inhibits the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Antimicrobial agents possess bactericidal, bacteriostatic, fungicidal, or fungistatic properties through disrupting cell membrane integrity, inhibiting protein synthesis, interfering with metabolic pathways, or damaging DNA/RNA. Common antimicrobials include quaternary ammonium compounds, alcohols, chlorhexidine, triclosan, and essential oils. Efficacy depends on concentration, pH, contact time, and microbial load.

PRESERVATIVE

Product Protector

Prevents microbial contamination and extends shelf life

SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS

// Evidence: Preservatives inhibit microbial growth through various mechanisms: disrupting cell membranes (phenoxyethanol, parabens), releasing formaldehyde (DMDM hydantoin), chelating essential nutrients, or creating unfavorable pH. Broad-spectrum preservatives target bacteria, yeast, and mold. Efficacy depends on concentration, pH, formulation type, and microbial challenge. Must pass preservative efficacy testing (PET/challenge testing) meeting USP, EP, or JP standards.

Products

containing Phenoxyethanol

39128 formulations
No Sweat Body Protect
No Sweat Body Protect
Anthony
932 Lips and Mouth Treatment Grade 5 Plus
932 Lips and Mouth Treatment Grade 5 Plus
Fillerina
Transformation Face Cream
Transformation Face Cream
Jan Marini
Omega 3 Repair Complex Sensitive
Omega 3 Repair Complex Sensitive
UltraLuxe
Anti Aging System
Anti Aging System
SkinCeuticals
3D Lip Plumpfix
3D Lip Plumpfix
Dr. Brandt
932 Lips and Mouth Treatment Grade 4 Plus
932 Lips and Mouth Treatment Grade 4 Plus
Fillerina
Redermic C Anti Wrinkle Vitamin C Moisturizer
Redermic C Anti Wrinkle Vitamin C Moisturizer
La Roche-Posay
Double Date Lip and Cheek Rendezvous/Swipe
Double Date Lip and Cheek Rendezvous/Swipe
Wander Beauty
Bikini Island Body Wash
Bikini Island Body Wash
South Seas Skincare
See all products with Phenoxyethanol

References

Scientific sources

[1]

Archives of Toxicology, March 2025, pages 1,095-1,103

[2]

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, October 2019, pages 15-24

[3]

Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, December 2016, page 156

[4]

PLOS One, October 2016, ePublication

[5]

Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, June 2015, pages 1,071-1,081

[6]

Cosmetics & Toiletries, 2014, pages 24-27

[7]

International Journal of Cosmetic Science, April 2011, pages 190-196

Semantic Analysis

Similar Ingredients

Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phenoxyethanol — common questions

What is Phenoxyethanol in skincare?

Phenoxyethanol is a clear to slightly hazy liquid with a mild, rose-like odor. It’s commonly used as a preservative in cosmetic and personal care products, including skincare, eye makeup, fragrances, blushes, foundations, lipsticks, bath soaps, and detergents.

What does Phenoxyethanol do? / Functions of Phenoxyethanol?

Common functions: ANTIMICROBIAL, PRESERVATIVE.

What is the comedogenic rating of Phenoxyethanol? / Is Phenoxyethanol comedogenic?

The comedogenic rating of Phenoxyethanol has not been established in our database.

Does it clog pores?
No Rating Available

Whether Phenoxyethanol clogs pores depends on the formulation and concentration.

Is Phenoxyethanol safe for skin?
2 2/5 — Low risk

Phenoxyethanol has a safety rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: It is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products to prevent microbial growth. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated phenoxyethanol and concluded it is safe as a pr

Is Phenoxyethanol good for sensitive skin?
3 3/5 — Moderate risk

Phenoxyethanol has an irritancy rating of 3 out of 5. A rating of 3 means it may cause mild irritation for some.

What are the side effects of Phenoxyethanol in skincare?

Known considerations: It is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products to prevent microbial growth. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated phenoxyethanol and concluded it is safe as a preservative in concentrations up to 1% in rinse-off products and up to 0.3% in leave-on products. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) rates it as a moderate concern due to potential for skin irritation and sensitization. Additional risks: skin irritation (irritancy rating 3/5).

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