On that note, you probably use this chemical more often than you think. About 23.9% of personal products contain phenoxyethanol1, so it’s a pretty common preservative. It’s likely in most of your products, from leave-on cosmetics (like lipsticks) to rinse-off formulas (like cleansers). And you’re probably about to see a lot more of it, too. With the increasing popularity of paraben-free products, many skin care brands have used phenoxyethanol in place of parabens. It can be listed on a label under several names, including 2-phenoxyethanol, phenoxytol, ethylene glycol monophenyl ether, and 1-hydroxy-2-phenoxyethane. Phenoxyethanol helps by preventing the growth of bacteria3, yeast, and mold, says Jessie Cheung, M.D., board-certified dermatologist. It fights bacteria by making holes in their membranes, which essentially makes them implode, adds Mian. Phenoxyethanol also disrupts DNA and RNA synthesis in bacteria and yeast, so it’s impossible for them to reproduce, she notes. In turn, these microbes can’t multiply and contaminate your beloved skin care products. RELATED: A Dermatologist-Approved Skin Care Routine For Oily Skin In a 2010 case study, a woman developed an allergic reaction—in the form of hives and anaphylaxis—after using a skin care product with phenoxyethanol. The researchers did a specific phenoxyethanol skin test and found that she was allergic to the preservative. There was also a 2015 report of phenoxyethanol causing irritation. The preservative, which was applied via ultrasound gel, led to contact dermatitis. Also, in 2008, the FDA issued a warning “for a nipple cream containing phenoxyethanol and chlorphenesin, another preservative [that causes] central nervous system effects, as the two ingredients could synergistically increase the risk of respiratory depression in nursing infants,” says Cheung. Finally, in animal studies, phenoxyethanol has caused negative effects at very high doses. However, any potential toxicity happens at exposure levels much higher—around 200 times more3—than what’s used in cosmetics. It’s also worth noting that reports of side effects are rare—extremely rare. (Consider them the exception, not the rule.) When used at the low concentrations (less than 1%) found in cosmetics, phenoxyethanol is unlikely to cause harmful or unpleasant outcomes. If you think you have a phenoxyethanol allergy, do a patch test first, suggests Mian. Apply a small amount to your inner wrist. Keep an eye on the area for 24 hours. You can keep using the product if you don’t develop a reaction. If you do have a reaction, remember that it could be caused by any ingredient in the formula. Your best bet is to visit your dermatologist to try to pinpoint the culprit. And if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding? Avoid using products with phenoxyethanol, just to be safe, and check with your doctor first.
