Raw Material 2-Phenoxyethanol Liquid CAS 122-99-6 Colorless Clear Formula

    2-Phenoxyethanol is a chemical compound with the formula C8H10O2. It is a clear, oily liquid with a faint, floral odor. Here are some key points about 2-phenoxyethanol:

    Chemical Structure: 2-Phenoxyethanol belongs to the class of glycol ethers, which are ethers derived from ethylene glycol. Its structure consists of a phenyl group (C6H5) attached to the oxygen atom of an ethylene glycol (HOCH2CH2) molecule.

    Properties:

    Solubility: It is soluble in water and many organic solvents, making it versatile for use in various formulations.
    Preservative: 2-Phenoxyethanol is widely used as a preservative in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products due to its antimicrobial properties, which help prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms.
    Stability: It is stable under normal conditions of use and storage.
    Applications:

    Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: 2-Phenoxyethanol is commonly used as a preservative in cosmetics, skincare products, hair care products, and toiletries to extend their shelf life and prevent microbial contamination.
    Pharmaceuticals: It is also used as a preservative in pharmaceutical products, including topical medications, vaccines, and injectables.
    Industrial Applications: Beyond personal care products, 2-phenoxyethanol finds applications in various industrial processes such as inks, dyes, paints, and coatings.
    Safety:

    Regulatory Approval: 2-Phenoxyethanol is approved for use in cosmetics and personal care products by regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Union's Cosmetics Regulation.
    Safety Concerns: While considered safe when used in accordance with regulations, there have been some concerns raised about its potential toxicity, particularly if ingested in large quantities or used on damaged skin. However, it is generally regarded as safe when used at low concentrations in cosmetic formulations.
    Alternatives: Due to increasing consumer demand for more natural and less synthetic ingredients, there has been interest in developing alternative preservatives to replace 2-phenoxyethanol in formulations. However, finding effective alternatives that maintain product stability and safety can be challenging.

    Overall, 2-phenoxyethanol is a widely used preservative in cosmetics, personal care products, and pharmaceuticals, valued for its effectiveness in preventing microbial growth and extending product shelf life. While safety concerns exist, it is generally considered safe when used appropriately and in compliance with regulatory guidelines.