The library

Ingredient library

Every ingredient SkinAtlas knows about — all 2165 of them. What each one does, what it works well with, and what to watch for.

36 ingredients in Preservative — page 2 of 2

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Preservative
Polyaminopropyl Biguanide

Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (PHMB) is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative polymer used in cosmetics, subject to regulatory scrutiny in the EU due to carcinogenicity and inhalation safety concerns.

PreservativeAntimicrobial
Broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative effective against bacteria, yeast, and moldPermitted up to 0.1% in non-spray cosmetics per EU Annex V (Regulation 2019/831); sprayable/inhalable products are not permitted
EU SCCS has concluded it is not safe for use in all cosmetic products at 0.3%; safety concern especially for spray/inhalation productsClassified as CMR 2 (Carc. 2) under EU regulations
Preservative
Polyepsilon-Lysine

Polyepsilon-Lysine is a natural cationic homopolymer of L-lysine produced by fermentation of Streptomyces albulus, used as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative in cosmetics.

PreservativeAntimicrobial
Natural fermentation-derived preservative with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activityEffective over a wide pH range (2–9)ECOCERT/COSMOS approved natural preservative option
Limited standalone efficacy; typically used in combination with other preservation systems
Preservative
Potassium Benzoate

The potassium salt of benzoic acid used as a preservative in cosmetics, particularly effective in low-pH formulations against bacteria, yeasts, and molds.

preservativeantimicrobial
Broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy against bacteria, yeasts, and moldsEffective at low pH (below 4.5), well-suited for low-pH Korean skincare formulationsGenerally considered mild and low-irritation when used at standard concentrations
May form benzene when combined with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in the presence of heat and light — avoid pairing with high-concentration ascorbic acidCan cause skin sensitization in some individuals at higher concentrations
Preservative
Potassium Sorbate

A mild preservative often paired with sodium benzoate.

Protects against yeast and mold
Preservative
Propylparaben

A longer-chain paraben preservative effective against bacteria and fungi, permitted by EU SCCS at up to 0.14% with specific restrictions on products for infants.

preservative
Broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservation at low concentrations
Weak estrogenic activity; EU SCCS permits up to 0.14% (as acid) in leave-on and rinse-off productsNot permitted in leave-on products for the nappy area of children under three
Preservative
Silver Oxide
SILVER OXIDE

A silver compound with antimicrobial properties. Used in Kiku-Masamune's sake emulsion as a preservative/antimicrobial booster.

antimicrobialpreservative
Broad-spectrum antimicrobialLong-lasting antimicrobial activity
Potential sensitizer; argyria risk with prolonged systemic exposure (unlikely in topical use)
+ Phenoxyethanol
Preservative
Sodium Anisate

The sodium salt of p-anisic acid (naturally derived from fennel/anise), used as a mild preservative that inhibits yeast and fungal growth in cosmetic formulations.

preservativemaskingfragrance
Prevents microbial growth (yeast and fungi)Gentle natural-derived preservative suitable for sensitive skinBiodegradable and low irritation potential
Most effective at pH 4.5–5.5; reduced efficacy outside that rangeBest used in combination with other preservatives rather than as a standalone system
Preservative
Sodium Benzoate

A preservative effective in slightly acidic formulas.

Protects against microbes
Preservative
Sodium Levulinate

The sodium salt of levulinic acid, a naturally derived preservative that disrupts microbial cell membranes; also provides mild skin conditioning and humectant benefits.

preservativeskin-conditioninghumectant
Plant-derived preservative (from starch/cellulose hydrolysis) with broad antimicrobial activitySkin conditioning and mild humectant propertiesSuitable for all skin types including sensitive skin; CIR Expert Panel assessed as safe
Most effective when used in combination with other preservatives (e.g., sodium anisate) rather than alone
Preservative
Sorbic Acid

A straight-chain unsaturated carboxylic acid used as a cosmetic preservative at up to 1% concentration to prevent microbial contamination and extend product shelf life.

preservative
Broad-spectrum preservative effective against mold, yeast, and bacteriaWell-studied safety profile; CIR Expert Panel assessed as safe up to 1% in cosmetics
Rare non-immunological contact urticaria and pseudo-allergic reactions reported in humansEWG score of 3 out of 10 (moderate concern)
Preservative
Thujopsis Dolabrata Branch Extract
THUJOPSIS DOLABRATA BRANCH EXTRACT

Extract from Thujopsis dolabrata (hiba arborvitae), a Japanese conifer related to hinoki cypress. Contains hinokitiol (beta-thujaplicin) and other terpenes with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and soothing properties. Used in Kanebo's sensitive toner.

preservativeantioxidantsoothing
Antimicrobial — natural preservativeAntioxidantTraditional Japanese botanical
+ Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate+ Allantoin
Preservative
Tropolone

An organic antimicrobial compound used as a preservative or preservative booster in cosmetics, typically combined with phenoxyethanol for broad-spectrum protection.

preservativeantimicrobialantioxidant
Antimicrobial against bacteria and fungiAntioxidant properties extend formula shelf lifeUsed to reduce reliance on parabens
Possible mild irritation in sensitive skin; usually used in combination with broader-spectrum preservatives
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