What Is Phenoxyethanol?

Phenoxyethanol is an oily, colorless substance and a common preservative used in skincare and personal care products. Additionally, it has antibacterial properties, and it’s a stabilizer. Phenoxyethanol is considered to be a safe alternative to parabens, but how true is this? 

Why Phenoxyethanol-Free Skincare?

Although phenoxyethanol doesn’t have such a bad reputation, it’s still a chemical. In fact, the European Commission classifies phenoxyethanol as safe to use in cosmetic products only in concentrations less than 1%. 

Clean beauty skincare aficionados avoid this ingredient to prevent any type of irritation. If you have sensitive skin, avoid phenoxyethanol in your skincare products as well. 

Often, phenoxyethanol will be listed as phenoxyethanol, ethylene glycol monophenyl ether, 2-Phenoxyethanol, PhE, dowanol, arosol, phenoxetol, rose ether, phenoxyethyl alcohol, beta-hydroxyethyl phenyl ether, etc. 

The Dangers of Phenoxyethanol

Phenoxyethanol if used at higher % than 1% can cause side effects in all skin types, especially sensitive skin:

• It can contribute to skin irritation;
• Phenoxyethanol can cause or worsen rashes, eczema, or hives;
• Rarely, it can cause allergies and anaphylaxis;
• It can cause dermatitis if used long-term;
• Phenoxyethanol is linked to central nervous system damage in infants and babies;