What it does
The most-used preservative in modern leave-on skincare. Prevents bacterial, yeast, and mold growth so a lifting cream stays safe to use for its 12-month shelf life.
Best for
Every modern water-based formulation. Allowed up to 1% in finished cosmetics, almost always used at 0.5 to 1%.
The full picture
Phenoxyethanol is the default modern preservative in clean and traditional cosmetics alike, having replaced parabens in most leave-on formulations during the 2010s. It works by disrupting the cell membranes of bacteria, yeast, and mold, keeping water-based creams stable for the 12 to 24 month shelf life shoppers expect. Found in ALASTIN, Medik8, and many other modern lifting creams. Sensitivity is uncommon but possible; if you have reacted to it, look for formulations that use only ethylhexylglycerin and caprylyl glycol with potassium sorbate / sodium benzoate.
Evidence
Reviewed extensively by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review and European Scientific Committee for Consumer Safety; considered safe at up to 1% in cosmetic use.
Read the source: INCIDecoder: Phenoxyethanol ->Reviewed August 2, 2026: As of August 2026, phenoxyethanol remains one of the most widely used preservatives, keeping formulas safe rather than delivering skin benefits.
