Phenoxyethanol
fee-NOX-ee-ETH-uh-nol
What Is Phenoxyethanol?
Phenoxyethanol is a widely used preservative that has become the most popular paraben alternative in hair and skin care products. It is a glycol ether with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, particularly effective against gram-negative bacteria. It occurs naturally in green tea but is commercially synthesized for cosmetic use.
Source: Synthesized from phenol and ethylene oxide; found naturally in green tea
Origin: Synthetic
Also known as: 2-Phenoxyethanol, Ethylene Glycol Monophenyl Ether, PhE
What Does Phenoxyethanol Do to Your Hair?
Phenoxyethanol prevents the growth of bacteria and to a lesser extent fungi in cosmetic products, maintaining product safety throughout the shelf life. It is typically used in combination with other preservatives (such as ethylhexylglycerin) to broaden its antimicrobial spectrum. It is stable across a wide pH range and compatible with most cosmetic ingredients.
Best For
All hair types (preservative function, not hair-type specific)
Not Recommended For
Infants under 3 (some regulatory caution)
Concentration Matters
0.5-1%
Hair Type Compatibility
Method Compatibility
Safety & Regulation
Safe at concentrations up to 1% according to EU and most regulatory bodies. Japan restricts to 1%. Very low irritation potential. Some concern about neurological effects in very young infants led to EU guidance limiting use in products for children under 3, though this is precautionary. No endocrine disruption concerns.
FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe
FDA permits use in cosmetics. EU permits up to 1% concentration. CIR panel considers safe at concentrations up to 1%.
EWG Score: 2/10
HairAide Verdict
Phenoxyethanol is the go-to paraben-free preservative in modern hair care and HairAide considers it a safe, effective choice. It provides reliable product preservation without the controversy of parabens or formaldehyde donors. If you are looking for paraben-free products, phenoxyethanol-preserved formulations are an excellent option.
Products That Contain Phenoxyethanol
Shampoos, conditioners, leave-ins, styling products, serums, virtually all product types
Alternatives to Phenoxyethanol
If you want to avoid Phenoxyethanol, look for products with these ingredients instead:
Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Phenoxyethanol has a safety rating of 8/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Safe at concentrations up to 1% according to EU and most regulatory bodies. Japan restricts to 1%. Very low irritation potential. Some concern about neurological effects in very young infants led to EU guidance limiting use in products for children under 3, though this is precautionary. No endocrine disruption concerns.
Phenoxyethanol is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.
Yes, Phenoxyethanol is approved for the Curly Girl method.
Some alternatives to Phenoxyethanol include: Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol
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