2-Phenoxyethanol is a broad-spectrum preservative used in cosmetic and skincare formulations to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold. It is typically used at concentrations up to 1% and helps extend product shelf life and ensure microbial safety.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Mild skin irritation | Uncommon | Transient redness or stinging, more likely on sensitive or compromised skin. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Documented cases of sensitization; confirmable via patch testing. |
Contact urticaria | Very rare | Isolated reports of hives following topical exposure. |
Eye irritation | Uncommon | Can occur with accidental contact, particularly at higher concentrations. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.