Ingredient Guide
Phenoxyethanol
Also known as: Phenoxyethanol
All skin types
What It Is
A synthetic preservative widely used in skincare to prevent microbial contamination and extend product shelf life. One of the most common replacements for parabens.
What It Does
Prevents bacterial, yeast, and mold growth in water-containing formulas, keeping products safe throughout their shelf life.
Best For
Preservation — functional ingredient across all product types
Benefits
- Broad-spectrum antimicrobial — effective against bacteria, yeast, and mold
- Well tolerated at standard cosmetic concentrations (typically ≤1%)
- One of the most widely reviewed cosmetic preservatives with an established safety record
When to Be Careful
- At concentrations above the regulatory limit (1%), can cause skin irritation or sensitization
- Rare sensitization reactions have been reported, particularly in baby products and very high concentrations
Commonly Found In
Virtually all water-based skincare productsMoisturizersSerumsCleansers
Products Containing Phenoxyethanol
Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion
The Ordinary
Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner
The Ordinary
Lash Curl Finisher
The Ordinary
Rice Lipids + Ectoin Microemulsion
The Ordinary
Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
The Ordinary
Argireline Solution 10%
The Ordinary
Sulfur 10% Powder-to-Cream Concentrate
The Ordinary
Matrixyl 10% + HA
The Ordinary
Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan
The Ordinary
Multi-Peptide Eye Serum
The Ordinary
GF 15% Solution
The Ordinary
Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum
The Ordinary
Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution
The Ordinary
Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%
The Ordinary
Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
The Ordinary
Salicylic Acid 2% Masque
The Ordinary
Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution
The Ordinary
Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA Scalp Serum
The Ordinary
Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA Spheres 2%
The Ordinary
Balancing & Clarifying Serum
The Ordinary
Retinal 0.2% Emulsion
The Ordinary
FAQs About Phenoxyethanol
Is phenoxyethanol safe in skincare?
Yes — at the regulatory concentration limit of 1%, phenoxyethanol is considered safe by the EU Cosmetics Regulation, the FDA, and cosmetic safety authorities globally.
Is phenoxyethanol better than parabens?
Neither is objectively better. Both are well-regulated and safe at standard concentrations. Phenoxyethanol became popular as brands responded to consumer preference for "paraben-free" products. Both are effective preservatives.