Phenoxyethanol is a glycol ether widely used as a broad-spectrum preservative in cosmetics and skincare to prevent microbial growth and extend product shelf life. It is typically used at concentrations up to 1% and is often combined with other preservatives.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin irritation | Uncommon | Mild redness or stinging, more likely at higher concentrations or on sensitive/compromised skin. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Documented in patch-test studies; presents as localized eczema or rash. |
| Contact urticaria | Very rare | Isolated case reports of hives following topical exposure. |
| Eye/mucous membrane irritation | Uncommon | Can occur with accidental contact, especially in higher-concentration products. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.