Phenoxyethanol

Phenoxyethanol (CAS 9004-78-8) is a synthetic glycol ether used primarily as a broad-spectrum preservative in personal care and cosmetic formulations.

Where is Phenoxyethanol used?

• Cosmetics and skincare: preservative in leave-on and rinse-off products including lotions, shampoos, and makeup
• Pharmaceutical: preservative and co-solvent in topical preparations and injectable formulations
• Coatings and adhesives: reactive diluent and solvent improving flow and substrate wetting
• Home care and industrial cleaning: extends product shelf life
• It also functions as a solvent and carrier in industrial applications.

Good to know: Typically used at concentrations up to 1% in cosmetics and skincare. Cosmetic-grade and pharmaceutical-grade (USP/BP) specifications are the most commercially prevalent, with technical grade available for industrial applications.

Commercial specifications

• Purity levels of 99% and above are standard
• Clear liquid in drum and IBC quantities