Quick answer
Preservative that inhibits contamination in skin care formulas; Extends a product’s shelf life; Helps prevent unwanted odor; Used in combination with other preservatives
Chlorphenesin
Updated
1,2-Propanediol, 3-(4-chlorophenoxy)-
Purpose
Effective skin care preservative that inhibits contamination and helps stabilize the formula’s shelf life.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Preservative
INCI Purpose
ANTIMICROBIAL, PRESERVATIVE
Alternative Names
At a Glance
Preservative that inhibits contamination in skin care formulas
Extends a product’s shelf life
Helps prevent unwanted odor
Used in combination with other preservatives
Article
As a skin care ingredient, chlorphenesin is used as a water- and glycerin-soluble preservative to inhibit contamination. Since it’s considered weak against some types of bacteria, it’s always combined with other preservatives, such as phenoxyethanol and caprylyl glycol, to boost stability and increase the product’s shelf life. It is also considered a “cosmetic biocide” to help prevent unwanted odors on skin.
In 2014, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded chlorphenesin was safe for skin (their report surveyed on-market formulas with concentrations up to 0.32% in rinse-off products and 0.3% in leave-on products).
See: Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol
References