Description
Phenoxyethanol is a versatile, broad-spectrum preservative commonly used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products due to its antimicrobial properties and chemical stability.
Chemical Properties
| Property | Description |
| Chemical Name | Phenoxyethanol |
| IUPAC Name | 2-Phenoxyethanol |
| Chemical Formula | C₈H₁₀O₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 138.16 g/mol |
| Chemical Nature | Glycol ether |
| Chemical Structure | Aromatic ether with primary alcohol group |
| Functional Groups | Ether (–O–), Hydroxyl (–OH) |
| Reactivity | Stable under normal conditions |
| Solubility | Soluble in water; miscible with alcohols and glycols |
| pH (1% aqueous solution) | 5.5 – 7.0 |
| Stability | Stable under recommended storage conditions |
| Oxidation | Resistant to oxidation |
| Hydrolysis | Stable in neutral and mildly acidic/alkaline conditions |
| Incompatibilities | Strong oxidizing agents |
| Flammability | Combustible liquid |
| Decomposition Products | Carbon oxides upon thermal decomposition |
Uses
Phenoxyethanol is widely used as a preservative and solvent in many industries:
Cosmetics & Personal Care : creams, lotions, shampoos, makeup, sunscreens, serums.
Pharmaceuticals : topical medicines, vaccines as a preservative.
Household & Industrial Cleaners : as a stabilizer and antimicrobial agent.
Paints & Coatings : as a solvent and stabilizer
Fragrances: fixative to improve scent longevity
Grades
Phenoxyethanol is typically available in the following grades:
- Cosmetic Grade : High-purity grade used in skin care and personal-care formulations.
- Pharmaceutical Grade : Ultra-pure grade suitable for medical and drug applications.
- Industrial Grade : Used in cleaners, inks, and coatings where ultra-high purity is not required.
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