2-Phenoxyethanol (PHENOXYETHANOL)
Commonly Found In
Overview
Phenoxyethanol is a synthetic ether alcohol widely used as a broad-spectrum preservative in cosmetics and personal care products, effective against both bacteria and fungi. It inhibits microbial growth by disrupting cell membrane integrity, making it one of the most common replacements for parabens in 'paraben-free' formulations. The CIR Expert Panel and EU SCCS have both assessed phenoxyethanol as safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 1%, which is the regulatory maximum in the EU, South Korea, and Japan. The French ANSM issued an advisory in 2012 recommending against its use in diaper-area products for infants under 3, though subsequent EU SCCS review maintained that it is safe at regulated levels for the general population including infants when used appropriately.
Also known as: 2-Phenoxyethanol, Ethylene glycol monophenyl ether, Phenoxytol, Rose ether, PhE
Key Benefits
Phenoxyethanol is a preservative rather than an active skin-benefit ingredient. Its primary value is protecting cosmetic formulations from microbial contamination, thereby maintaining product safety and efficacy throughout shelf life. No direct skin-conditioning, anti-aging, or brightening benefits have been established.
Supporting Research
- β’ CIR Expert Panel (2007 reaffirmed). Safety assessment of phenoxyethanol. International Journal of Toxicology. Concluded safe at up to 1% in cosmetic formulations.
- β’ SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety) Opinion SCCS/1603/16 (2016). Confirmed safety of phenoxyethanol at β€1% including for use in infant products except around the diaper area.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic at typical use concentrations of 0.5-1%.
Source: Draelos ZD & DiNardo JC (2006). A re-evaluation of the comedogenicity concept. JAAD, 54(3), 507-512.
Irritancy Rating
Low irritancy at 0.5-1% use concentrations in most individuals. Mild contact sensitization reported rarely. SCCS confirmed safety margin is adequate at β€1%.
Source: CIR Expert Panel (2007). Safety assessment of phenoxyethanol. International Journal of Toxicology.
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.5-1%
Optimal
0.5-1%
Maximum 1% in EU, Japan, and South Korea. The US does not set a regulatory cap, but industry convention is 0.5-1%. Concentrations above 1% are not standard practice.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Phenoxyethanol is chemically stable across a wide pH range (4-10) and compatible with most cosmetic actives. Efficacy is generally not affected by other common ingredients.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Restricted | 1.0% | As antimicrobial preservative | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (V/29) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
The EU and several Asian markets (JP, KR) cap phenoxyethanol at 1% under their positive-list preservative systems, reflecting a precautionary approach and harmonized SCCS safety opinion. France's ANSM issued a specific advisory in 2012 against use in products for infants under 3 years in the diaper area, based on a theoretical dermal absorption concern. The subsequent EU SCCS Opinion (SCCS/1603/16, 2016) found that phenoxyethanol at β€1% presents no risk even for infant skin, but the French advisory influenced consumer perception. The US does not have a specific concentration limit in its cosmetic regulations, relying on company responsibility and FDA oversight.
Recent Regulatory Changes
- β’ EU SCCS Opinion SCCS/1603/16 (2016) confirmed safety at β€1% including for infant products, except in diaper area.
- β’ French ANSM advisory (2012) recommended caution in infant products in the diaper area β not a legal ban but influenced market practices.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in UK but allowed in EU, 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
Found in small amounts in green tea and chicory. However, cosmetic-grade phenoxyethanol is synthetically produced.
π How It's Made
Synthesized through the reaction of phenol with ethylene oxide, or through the hydroxyethylation of phenol. Industrial production is entirely synthetic.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used at up to 1% (EU restriction) as a preservative to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. Often used as an alternative to parabens in 'paraben-free' products.
π¬ Other Applications
Used as a preservative in vaccines, pharmaceuticals, and some perfumes. Also used as a solvent in textile inks.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Rose to popularity in the 2000s as brands reformulated away from parabens, only to face its own safety scrutiny later
- β’ The EU restricts it to 1% in cosmetics, while Japan allows it without specific concentration limits
- β’ Despite being marketed as a 'natural' preservative alternative, it's synthetically produced
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ CIR Expert Panel (2007). Safety assessment of phenoxyethanol. International Journal of Toxicology.
- β’ EU SCCS Opinion SCCS/1603/16 (2016).
- β’ French ANSM Advisory on phenoxyethanol in infant products (2012).
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 Annex V (preservatives list).
- β’ Draelos ZD & DiNardo JC (2006). JAAD, 54(3), 507-512.
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
BENZETHONIUM CHLORIDE
CETRIMONIUM BROMIDE
CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE
CHLOROPHENE
FORMALDEHYDE
PHENOL
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PHENOXYETHANOL used for in cosmetics?
PHENOXYETHANOL 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 PHENOXYETHANOL?
PHENOXYETHANOL is banned in UK. It has concentration limits or usage restrictions in KR. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to PHENOXYETHANOL?
Due to regulatory restrictions on PHENOXYETHANOL, 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.
Where can I find official regulation information about PHENOXYETHANOL?
Official information about PHENOXYETHANOL regulations can be found on government websites: EU CosIng database, US FDA Cosmetics page, Japan MHLW cosmetics standards, UK Government cosmetics guidance, and Korea MFDS. Always verify regulatory status with these official sources before making formulation decisions.
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.