Safety of Phenoxyethanol

What is Phenoxyethanol?

Phenoxyethanol is an ingredient used in cosmetics as a preservative , and is also used as a stabilizer in soaps and perfumes.

Cosmetics, which contain moisture, are prone to spoilage, just like food.

On the other hand, general cosmetics are required to be able to be stored for three years when unopened. For this reason, cosmetics always contain preservatives or ingredients with preservative properties.

Phenoxyethanol inhibits the growth of fungi, bacteria, and yeast, thus ensuring a long shelf life and safety.

What cosmetics is it in?

Parabens are also preservatives, but more and more consumers are avoiding them due to safety concerns. As a result, phenoxyethanol is increasingly being used in place of parabens.

From makeup products to baby products, hair care products, and skin care products, phenoxyethanol is used in a wide range of cosmetics, including the following:

• Eyeshadow
• Sunscreen
• mascara
• Cheek
• lipstick
• Eyeliner
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Body soap
• Foundation, concealer
• Hand cream
• Hair color, hairspray
• Toner, lotion
• Face cream
• Face masks
• Baby Wipes
• Baby Lotion
• Baby Soap

Phenoxyethanol content is limited to 1%

Phenoxyethanol has been deemed safe in formulations up to 1% by safety assessments conducted by multiple organizations. In Japan, there are also regulations restricting its use to 1%.

However, while the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety has deemed it safe at less than 1%, it does include a warning.
This means that even if a product contains less than 1% phenoxyethanol, if multiple products are used simultaneously, the amount may exceed what is considered safe.

It is best to avoid using multiple types of cosmetics containing phenoxyethanol in the same day.

May cause allergies

Although it is not common, phenoxyethanol can cause allergic reactions. If you experience hives-like rashes or itching, suspect the possibility of an allergic reaction.

Phenoxyethanol is also often used in combination with parabens , which some studies suggest may cause stronger allergic reactions.

People who need to be cautious about phenoxyethanol

People who already have sensitive skin due to eczema, atopic dermatitis, or rashes should be careful. It is best to avoid using products that contain phenoxyethanol, or at least multiple products.
If you experience an allergic reaction, discontinue use. In most cases, the reaction will subside within a few days to a few weeks.

Also, be especially careful with infants and young children.
There have been cases of infants who have ingested creams containing phenoxyethanol experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, and impaired neurological function. Some babies have also been reported to have lost their appetite, become lethargic, and become refractory to sleep.

It's a good idea to check the ingredients not only of products for babies, but also of creams and hand creams used by adults around you, to make sure you're feeling safe.

Beware of other preservatives

If phenoxyethanol is not listed on the ingredient list, it does not necessarily mean the product is safe. For example, there are other preservatives to be aware of, such as:

• DMDM hydantoin : May release formaldehyde, which is also a cause of sick building syndrome. Also a cause of allergies.
• Isothiazolinone : A preservative often used in hair care products such as shampoos. It may cause allergies.
• Parabens: There are several types, including methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. They may be endocrine disruptors .