Phenoxyethanol in skincare: safety and uses
A lot of skincare ingredients and brands have emerged to accommodate the need for skincare products. One of the ingredients that have become so popular is a substance called Phenoxyethanol. So, what is Phenoxyethanol?
What is Phenoxyethanol?
Phenoxyethanol is a colorless, oily preservative with a rose-like odor used in toiletries, perfumes, and cosmetics to limit growth. Almost 24% of the products we use in our daily life activities contain Phenoxyethanol, which is why several skincare companies have replaced paraben with this chemical.
It’s found in almost all the products we use every day, from lipsticks to cleansers.
What Are the Uses of Phenoxyethanol in Skin Care?
Phenoxyethanol has many uses in skincare. Keep reading to find out.
- It’s used to enhance the shelf life of products
As said earlier, Phenoxyethanol is used as a preservative in skincare products. The antimicrobial and equalizing properties protect and extend the product’s life span, thus reducing spoilage.
Besides that, don’t just assume about the expiry date because of the chemical used. Check well the manufacturing and expiry date before making a purchase.
2. It’s Used to Stabilize Skincare Products
Phenoxyethanol works well in different formulas. It hinders the ingredients from separating due to its adaptability with other skincare preservatives.
3. It’s Used to Block Microbial Growth
Skincare products are home to microorganisms. Since every skincare product contains water, it prevents yeasts’ growth, mold, and bacteria by making holes in the membrane, thus blocking them from reproducing.
Is Phenoxyethanol Safe?
Skincare products are one thing that we can’t dodge from using in our daily activities. Therefore, deciding to use the one with no chemicals is a big problem because almost all skincare products contain Phenoxyethanol.
Using products with this chemical has advantages and disadvantages because it can be safe for one person and toxic to the other person. To add, when it’s applied in low amounts, it does not react to a person’s health.
Apart from the benefits, it also has several health concerns.
- Allergies and other skin irritations
Phenoxyethanol can cause allergic reactions, skin irritations, rashes, hives, and eczema. It also has very deadly side effects on infants and animals. In infants, it can cause nervous system damage and anaphylaxis (a life-threatening allergic reaction).
Who Shouldn’t Use It?
Phenoxyethanol is a good preservative for many skincare products. Additionally, it has several benefits, but it’s not suitable to be used by the following group of people.
- Expectant or lactating Mothers
Phenoxyethanol has specific properties that are harmful to the human body. This chemical is not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers because it can harm the infant.
- It Should not be used by People Who Have Allergies.
If you have a skin allergy, it’s essential to apply a small amount on your skin to test the effect of Phenoxyethanol before using it. If there’s no reaction, continue using the item.
Phenoxyethanol is a chemical substance used in skincare products as a preservative. It also has several benefits to the skin. This article has provided you with relevant facts about Phenoxyethanol to help take care of your skin. If you have sensitive skin, do a skin test to see if there’s an allergic reaction.