CHLOROPHENE
Commonly Found In
Overview
CHLOROPHENE is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for ANTIMICROBIAL. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: 2-Benzyl-4-chlorophenol, Chlorophen, Santophen 1
Key Benefits
Chlorophene is an antimicrobial preservative with broad-spectrum activity against bacteria and fungi. It has no beneficial skin effects beyond its preservative function.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; antimicrobial phenol derivative used at very low concentrations.
Source: CIR Expert Panel; physicochemical properties
Irritancy Rating
Moderate irritancy potential; chlorinated phenol derivatives can cause contact dermatitis. At typical cosmetic antimicrobial concentrations, irritation risk is lower but sensitization has been documented.
Source: CIR Expert Panel safety assessment; patch test literature
Typical Use Concentration
Range
N/A (banned in EU/UK)
Optimal
N/A
Where permitted, used at antimicrobial effective concentrations in industrial disinfectants.
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (II/1602) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
The EU banned chlorophene from cosmetics under Annex II/1602 due to concerns about its chlorinated phenol structure and potential health risks. The US and Japan have not implemented a corresponding ban in cosmetics.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU, UK but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 84 ingredients in the ANTIMICROBIAL category. 99% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Not found in nature. A fully synthetic chlorinated phenol compound developed as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent.
π How It's Made
Synthesized by chlorination of 2-benzylphenol, or by condensation of phenol with benzyl chloride followed by chlorination.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for antimicrobial, preservative.
π¬ Other Applications
Used as an industrial and hospital disinfectant, in veterinary medicine, and in wood preservation treatments.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Chlorophene was widely used in household disinfectants in the 1950s-1970s before environmental concerns led to restrictions
- β’ It's particularly effective against fungi and mold, which made it popular in hospital and institutional settings
- β’ The EU banned it from cosmetics, but it's still used in some countries as a hospital-grade disinfectant
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β Annex II/1602
- β’ FDA cosmetic ingredient database
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
FORMALDEHYDE
PHENOL
RADIUM ORE POWDER
BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE
BENZETHONIUM CHLORIDE
CETRIMONIUM BROMIDE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is CHLOROPHENE banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning CHLOROPHENE under II/1602 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is CHLOROPHENE banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits CHLOROPHENE (II/1602) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is CHLOROPHENE used for in cosmetics?
CHLOROPHENE is primarily used for antimicrobial in cosmetic products. It also serves as preservative. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate CHLOROPHENE?
CHLOROPHENE is banned in EU, UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to CHLOROPHENE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on CHLOROPHENE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For antimicrobial, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.