Ingredient
Phenethyl Alcohol
What is Phenethyl Alcohol?
Phenethyl Alcohol is a natural aromatic alcohol that can be found in various essential oils like rose and neroli. It can also be synthetically produced from styrene derivatives.
In cosmetics and personal care products, it's commonly used as a preservative due to its ability to inhibit microbial growth, extending the shelf life of products. As an aromatic compound, it can also contribute a pleasant fragrance. The evidence on its health impacts is generally positive, with only rare instances of skin irritation reported.
When you see Phenethyl Alcohol on a label, it's typically acting as a fragrance component or a gentle preservative, making it a common choice in natural and sensitive skin formulations.
Commonly found in: Skin Care, Makeup, Perfumes, Lotions, Shampoos
What to watch
- May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals when used in high concentrations.
Benefits
- Serves as both a natural preservative and fragrant component, enhancing product stability and sensory experience.
Phenethyl Alcohol is considered safe for use in cosmetics by the FDA.
Research shows it effectively inhibits microbial growth without significant adverse effects.
Phenethyl Alcohol is generally derived from plant sources, making it suitable for vegan formulations.
Sources: Current Findings on Phenethyl Alcohol's Use in Cosmetics
Scout's take
Benign functional ingredient — low toxicity concern.
Found in 3 products
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