Phenoxyethanol
The question

Is Phenoxyethanol safe in natural cosmetics?

CautionNatural cosmetics

Common paraben alternative used as a preservative. Generally safer than parabens at regulated concentrations, but caution is warranted for infants.

What the research flags

  • CNS depression at high doses in animal studies
  • Skin sensitization in some individuals
  • FDA warned against use in nipple creams — potential infant CNS effects
  • EU max concentration 1%

Other natural cosmetics ingredients on file

Sources & references

  1. [1]
    DatabaseIngredient database — 704811-PHENOXYETHANOL
  2. [2]
    RegulatoryUS federal agency — mommy-bliss-nipple-cream-safety-warning
  3. [3]
    RegulatoryInternational regulator — sccs_o_132.pdf

Research disclaimer: Ratings reflect peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments available at the time of publication, not the dose or formulation of any specific natural cosmetics product. This is not medical advice.