CAS: 122-99-6
Phenoxyethanol is a synthetic, glycol ether-based compound commonly used as a preservative in formulations. It appears as a clear, colorless liquid with a faint rose-like scent. Known for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, low toxicity, and stability, Phenoxyethanol effectively protects products from microbial contamination, ensuring product safety and shelf life.
Functions
Applications
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CQguard PE-5 is Chemquest International’s phenoxyethanol, an antimicrobial preservative listed in the INCI cosmetic ingredient database for use in personal care formulations. It is also known by the following synonyms and chemical identifiers:
Phenoxyethanol belongs to the glycol ether family and is used as a broad-spectrum preservative in cosmetics, personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and industrial formulations.
Phenoxyethanol has become a preferred alternative to traditional preservatives such as parabens and formaldehyde-releasing agents, offering microbial protection while maintaining compatibility with a wide range of cosmetic actives, emulsifiers, and botanical ingredients.
ChemQuest is a trusted phenoxyethanol supplier providing high-purity CQguard PE-5 for manufacturers and formulators worldwide. Our material meets stringent cosmetic and pharmaceutical standards and is supported by regulatory documentation, technical data sheets, and quality assurance testing.
The following technical specifications provide key information used by formulators, quality control teams, and procurement specialists when evaluating phenoxyethanol for product development and manufacturing.
| Product Property | Description |
| Appearance | Clear colorless liquid |
| pH (1% aqueous solution) | 5.50-7.00 |
| Purity (by GC) (%) | 99.50 Min. |
| Specific Gravity @ 20°C | 1.10 – 1.11 |
| Refractive Index @ 20°C | 1.5355 – 1.5395 |
| Color APHA | 10.00 Max. |
| Free Phenol (ppm) | 5.00 Max. |
| 1,4 Dioxane (ppm) | 1.00 Max. |
| Ethylene Oxide (ppm) | 1.00 Max. |
CQguard PE-5 phenoxyethanol meets or exceeds USP/NF, European Pharmacopoeia (EP), and cosmetic-grade purity requirements. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is available upon request to verify quality specifications and batch traceability.
Phenoxyethanol is a versatile preservative used across a variety of industries to protect water-based products from microbial contamination while maintaining product integrity throughout storage and consumer use.
Below are the primary application categories and typical use concentrations.
Phenoxyethanol is one of the most widely used preservatives in modern cosmetic formulations. Common applications include:
Manufacturers sourcing cosmetic grade ingredients often rely on phenoxyethanol for its reliable preservative performance and formulation compatibility. It helps extend product shelf life without significantly altering product fragrance, texture, or performance.
Phenoxyethanol is widely used as a pharmaceutical excipient in topical medications, oral care products, and certain ophthalmic preparations. Typical pharmaceutical formulations that incorporate phenoxyethanol as a preservative include:
Phenoxyethanol’s effectiveness across a wide pH range makes it suitable for many manufacturing environments. It helps prevent microbial contamination that could degrade product quality during storage or transportation. Common industrial uses include:
Phenoxyethanol’s compatibility with a wide range of ingredients makes it suitable for veterinary products designed to maintain hygiene and prevent microbial growth during use. It is used as an antimicrobial preservative in:
Phenoxyethanol’s effectiveness, stability, and regulatory acceptance make it a preferred preservative solution for modern cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations.
Key benefits include:
Regulatory authorities worldwide consider phenoxyethanol safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products when used at approved concentrations, typically up to 1.0% in finished cosmetic formulations.
Proper storage and handling help maintain product stability and performance.
Always review the Safety Data Sheet before handling:
ChemQuest’s CQguard PE-5 phenoxyethanol meets global compliance requirements for cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial product manufacturing. We support formulators and procurement teams with complete regulatory and quality documentation, including:
Phenoxyethanol is primarily used as a preservative in cosmetics, personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and household products. It prevents the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, helping extend product shelf life and maintain microbiological safety. Common uses include lotions, shampoos, sunscreens, wet wipes, and topical medications.
Yes. Independent safety assessments and regulatory authorities confirm phenoxyethanol is safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 1.0%. It is non-carcinogenic, non-mutagenic, and generally well tolerated by skin when used within approved limits.
Both ingredients function as preservatives, but they have different chemical structures and safety perceptions. Parabens have faced consumer concerns regarding potential endocrine disruption. Phenoxyethanol is chemically different and is widely used as a paraben-free alternative in cosmetic formulations.
At approved concentrations, phenoxyethanol is generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing. In rare cases, individuals with very sensitive skin may experience mild irritation. Formulators often use concentrations between 0.5–0.8% to maintain strong preservation while minimizing the potential for irritation.
ChemQuest supplies high-purity CQguard PE-5 phenoxyethanol along with Certificates of Analysis, Safety Data Sheets, and technical support.
When stored properly in sealed containers at 15–30°C, phenoxyethanol typically remains stable for at least 3 years from the date of manufacture.
Phenoxyethanol is primarily produced synthetically, but can also be derived from natural sources such as green tea extract or chicory root through specialized processes. Commercial-grade phenoxyethanol, like CQguard PE-5, is synthetically produced to ensure consistent purity, quality, and cost-effectiveness. It is chemically identical to naturally derived forms.