Cosmetic preservatives

Modern formulas often combine a preservative with boosters such as ethylhexylglycerin, caprylyl glycol or 1,2-hexanediol, and with chelating agents, to reach broad protection at lower levels. Organic acid preservatives work only at acidic pH, so the product pH guides the choice. Formulators confirm efficacy with a challenge test.

Ask for the INCI name, assay, impurity limits and the regulatory status in every market you sell to, because permitted preservatives and maximum levels differ across the EU, the US, China, ASEAN and India. Some preservatives, such as methylisothiazolinone in leave-on products, are restricted because of skin sensitisation, and formaldehyde releasers need labelling above certain levels.