Not one cosmetic means does not do withoutpreservatives. All products that contain water are a nutrient medium for various kinds of bacteria, fungi and microorganisms. Adding preservative to them allows to extend the shelf life of cosmetics and make it safe. The most common substance with such properties is phenoxyethanol.
Description
Often, users of cosmetics are concerned about thewhat is phenoxyethanol, what it is used for and where it can be found. Phenoxyethanol is a glycol ether, which is used as a preservative in cosmetic products and medicines. It is a kind of alcohol ester with aromatic properties that can improve the fragrance of cosmetic products. The substance is a colorless liquid, fatty in nature. Refers to organic chemicals contained in its natural form in chicory, grapefruit and green tea. Nevertheless phenoxyethanol in cosmetics uses artificial, produced in laboratory conditions, this helps create a stronger chemical with fewer impurities.
This organic compound is also known for itsantimicrobial properties (effectively against yeast, bacterial organisms and mold). This property of phenoxyethanol became the leading one for determining it as a preservative against bacteriological contamination of cosmetic products.
The history of phenoxyethanol
The appearance of phenoxyethanol as the mainchemical preservative occurred when the public began to sound alarm about the danger of using parabens. Many manufacturers have realized that this chemical is a suitable alternative for replacing parabens. It is easy to produce, and it is much cheaper. Anesthetic properties of phenoxyethanol can temporarily reduce pain when applied to the wound or burn area, and can act as a mild disinfectant.
Danger of use
American Quality Management AuthorityFood and Drug Administration The FDA conducted a study of a substance such as phenoxyethanol, the benefits and harm of its use in cosmetics were evaluated. The result is stunning: eating large doses of phenoxyethanol can be toxic and harmful to babies. Accidental ingestion of a pure substance can lead to depression of the central nervous system, contributes to the occurrence of diarrhea and vomiting. In addition, the combined presence of phenoxyethanol and chlorphenesin in the product may lead to respiratory depression.
Because of these potentially dangerous side effectsshould not exceed 1% of the total mass of the content of a component such as phenoxyethanol (phenoxyethanol), in cosmetics, harm in this case will be minimal. In addition, mothers of newborns should avoid the use of cosmetics containing phenoxyethanol, breastfeeding, to prevent accidental chemical exposure to the child.
Chemical properties of phenoxyethanol
Phenoxyethanol in cosmetics can be broken down intoethylene, phenyle, ether and glycol. It is also known by several other chemical names, such as Phenoxytol, Phenoxethol, Rose Ether, Phenyle Cellosolve and Ethylene Glycol Monophenyl Ether. During the tests of dermatological products, in addition to preserving properties, a chemical property was discovered that blocked the fixing aromas in perfumery and soap. Due to what the smell does not evaporate and remains for a longer period of use.
Despite the fact that many users believethat phenoxyethanol in cosmetics causes harm to the body, it is environmentally friendly and easily decomposed by biological effects. It cannot accumulate in the body and cannot participate in the food chain.
Compatibility with other components
Phenoxyethanol has wide compatibility.the list of components of cosmetic raw materials included in the composition of water-soluble and insoluble agents. It is characterized by thermal stability, begins to decompose at temperatures above 85 degrees Celsius. Due to what it is used even in difficult climatic conditions, and in a large range of cosmetic products.
Он остается устойчивым в Рн от 3 до 10,7, поэтому it can be added to almost any cosmetic product, from hard alkaline soaps to gels and high acidity foams.
Phenoxyethanol is very economical, the maximum amount in a tool is 0.3-1%, that is, only 15-20 drops of a substance are required for a bottle with 200 ml of product.
Type of products containing phenoxyethanol
Consumers are often worried about whyneed phenoxyethanol in cosmetics, for which it is used. It is mainly found in cosmetics and pharmaceutical products, including perfumes, in sunscreens, shampoos, creams and ointments. In the chemical industry, it is also used in laundry rinses, bactericides, inks, insect repellents, dyes, antiseptics, vaccines, resins and spermicidal gels. It is important to understand that it is a secondary component in most skin care products, and is not intended to treat any particular condition or problem skin.
Specific Benefits of Using Phenoxyethanol as a Preservative
There are several additional options.the use of phenoxyethanol in cosmetics and the food industry, in addition to skin care. For example, a chemical is added to certain foods to keep it fresh for long periods of time. This organic chemical can kill the bacteria present in cosmetic formulations and is considered to be a more suitable biological buffer than sodium azide, and the toxicity level of phenoxyethanol is less significant than that of paraben. In addition, this chemical is used in several pharmaceutical products and in the preparation of preservatives.
Phenoxyethanol has a wide spectrum.antimicrobial activity. It is effective to protect the product from the growth of yeast, mold, all types of bacteria, including those resistant to antibiotics, such as gram-negative bacteria, which are the main causative agents of purulent and inflammatory processes. In order to enhance its effect, usually a food preservative, potassium sorbate, which is included in the composition of all beverages and many products, is added to it.
Side Effects of Using Phenoxyethanol
Phenoxyethanol when used in largequantities causes damage to brain cells and the central nervous system. Some other possible high-dose chemical side effects include skin irritation, allergic reactions, cancer, inflammation of the lungs and eyes, dermatitis, severe skin reactions in people dealing with eczema. For skin problems, allergies, use products with the substance phenoxyethanol with caution. In cosmetics, it is used quite often, so you need to look composition. However, allergies and skin rashes can be caused not only by the preservative, but also by the main composition of the cream, so first of all you need to pay attention to it.
