Phenoxyethanol
- CAS Number: 122-99-6
- Chemical Formula: C8H10O2
- MOQ: 1000KG
- Shelf Life: 2 years
- Synonyms: Ethylene glycol monophenyl ether, Phenyl ethylene glycol
Product Description
What Is Phenoxyethanol?
A prominent preservative in cosmetics and personal care products, phenolethanol is an aromatic ether with antibacterial and antifungal qualities. It is a colorless, oily liquid with a mild rose-like odor and is effective in preventing the growth of microorganisms, extending the shelf life of products.
The usual method for creating phenoloxyethanol is to react phenol with ethylene oxide while a base catalyst is present. This reaction produces phenoxyethanol along with water as a byproduct. The product is then purified through distillation to remove any remaining impurities.
It is widely used in products such as lotions, shampoos, makeup, and creams, often as a safer alternative to formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. While generally considered safe, it is used in low concentrations due to potential irritation for sensitive skin.
Related Parameters:
| Items | Standards |
| Purity | ≥ 99% |
| Acidity (pH) | 5.0 – 7.0 |
| Density | 1.06 – 1.10 g/cm³ at 20°C |
| Refractive Index | 1.539 – 1.543 |
| Boiling Point | 244 – 246°C |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 0.5% |
| Heavy Metals | ≤ 10 ppm |
| Chloride Content | ≤ 0.1% |
Recommended Dosage of Phenoxyethanol:
| Applications | Dosage |
| Cosmetic & Personal Care Products | 0.5% – 1.0% |
| Lotions & Creams | 0.5% – 1.0% |
| Shampoos & Conditioners | 0.5% – 1.0% |
| Makeup Products | 0.5% – 1.0% |
| Sunscreens | 0.5% – 1.0% |
| Baby Care Products | ≤ 0.5% |
| Household Cleaning Products | 0.5% – 1.0% |
Phenoxyethanol Has Wide Range of Uses:
1. Cosmetic and Personal Care Products
Phenoxyethanol is commonly used in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and creams as a preservative to prevent bacteria, yeast, and mold growth, extending shelf life.
2. Makeup Products
It is also commonly found in makeup products, including foundations, lipsticks, and eye makeup, where it helps prevent contamination by microorganisms. Its mild antimicrobial properties ensure the products remain safe and hygienic during use.
3. Sunscreens
In sunscreen formulations, Phenoxyethanol is used as a preservative to protect against microbial contamination while maintaining the stability and effectiveness of the formula.
4. Baby Care Products
For baby care items like baby lotions or diaper creams, Phenoxyethanol is used at low concentrations to preserve the product without causing irritation to sensitive skin.
5. Domestic GoodsPhenoxyethanol is used in disinfectants and surface cleansers, among other household cleaning goods. It serves as an antimicrobial agent, enhancing the shelf life and safety of these products.
6. Pharmaceutical Products
In the pharmaceutical industry, it is sometimes included in topical ointments and creams to prevent microbial contamination and preserve the active ingredients’ efficacy.
7. Fragrances
Phenoxyethanol is used in some fragrances as a preservative to prevent degradation of the fragrance components and to maintain the product’s quality over time.
8. Food and Beverages
Although less common, Phenoxyethanol is occasionally used as a preservative in food and beverages in some countries, although its use is more restricted in this category.
User Asked Question:
Q: What is the difference between phenoxyethanol and other preservatives such as ethylhexylglycerin?
A: While both are commonly used in cosmetics, Ethylhexylglycerin is a multifunctional preservative with added emollient and skin-conditioning properties, while Phenoxyethanol is more focused on antimicrobial action. Both are used to extend the shelf life of products, but some formulations may use them together for a broader preservative effect.
