Phenoxyethanol
⚠ EU RestrictedIdentification
CAS Number 122-99-6
EINECS / EC 204-589-7
CosIng Ref 36522
Chemical Name 2-Phenoxyethanol
Formula C8H10O2
Mol. Weight 138.16 g/mol
Function & Classification
Primary Function Preservative
Secondary Functions PRESERVATIVE
Origin Synthetic
Manufacturer Schülke & Mayr GmbH
EU Regulatory Status
Max Leave-on 1%
Max Rinse-off 1%
Restrictions Max 1%. Not to be used in products for children under 3 years of age that are applied to the nappy area.
Conditions of Use Max 1.0% (all product types). Not in leave-on products for the nappy area for children under 3 years.
Mandatory Warning Not to be used in leave-on products for the nappy area for children under 3 years.
SCCS Opinion View SCCS opinion →
Safety Profile
3 / 10
Comedogenic Rating: 0/5
Will not clog pores — safe for acne-prone skin
Skin Type Compatibility
Acne-Prone ✓ Safe
Fungal Acne Safe ✓ Safe
Toxicology Profile
NOAEL 400 mg/kg bw/day (oral, rat, 90-day) SCCS/1575/16 (2016). Opinion on Phenoxyethanol. European Commission.
Sensitization Non-sensitizer
Genotoxicity Non-genotoxic
Phototoxicity Non-phototoxic
Dermal Absorption 67%
LD₅₀ Oral 1260 mg/kg (rat)
LD₅₀ Dermal 5300 mg/kg (rabbit)
Skin Irritation (Draize) 0.5 / 4.0
Eye Irritation (Draize) 1.5 / 4.0
Source SCCS Opinion ↗
Formulation Guidelines
Usage Level 0.5% – 1%
pH Stability 6 – 8
Solubility 10 g/l (20 °C)
Benefits Preservative; antimicrobial; broad-spectrum efficacy pH 3-8
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