Phenoxyethanol
This one's the bodyguard.
What it does
Keeps your product fresh by stopping bacteria and mold from growing.
Good to know
One of the most widely used preservatives. The EU allows up to 1% in cosmetics.
Often found in: Sunscreens, Shampoos, Hand creams
Around the world
- United States: No FDA limit. The FDA doesn't approve cosmetic ingredients before sale. Source
- EU and UK: Allowed up to 1% as a preservative. Source
- Canada: Not on Health Canada's Hotlist of restricted ingredients. Source
- Australia: Allowed in cosmetics up to 1%. Above that it's controlled (Schedule 6). Source
Sources
- SCCS opinion: Phenoxyethanol (2016) (Independent)
- RIFM safety assessment: 2-phenoxyethanol, update (2025) (Industry-funded)
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