Phenoxyethanol
Phenoxyethanol
The most common preservative in modern skincare, replacing parabens. Safe at the EU limit of 1%. Used by nearly every brand from CeraVe to La Roche-Posay.
Benefits
Effective preservation, well-studied safety profile, widely accepted
Risks & concerns
Safe at EU limit (1%). Very rare sensitization. Safe alternative to parabens.
Best for
Found in (32)
Showing the top 24.
SkinCeuticals
C E Ferulic
93/100
The Ordinary
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
91/100
La Roche-Posay
Cicaplast Baume B5+
90/100
CeraVe
Moisturizing Cream
88/100
The Ordinary
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
88/100
La Roche-Posay
Anthelios UVMune 400 SPF50+
87/100
Drunk Elephant
Protini Polypeptide Cream
86/100
SVR
Sebiaclear Serum
86/100
The Ordinary
Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
86/100
Paula's Choice
Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment
86/100
CeraVe
Foaming Facial Cleanser
85/100
The Ordinary
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
85/100
P20
Suncare for Kids SPF50+
85/100
Eucerin
UreaRepair Plus 5% Urea Body Cream
84/100
La Roche-Posay
Toleriane Sensitive Cream
84/100
Colorescience
Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF50
83/100
Beauty of Joseon
Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+
82/100
CeraVe
Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen Face Lotion SPF30
80/100
The Ordinary
Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
79/100
Garnier
Ambre Solaire Super UV Anti-Dark Spots & Anti-Pollution Fluid SPF50+
79/100
Australian Gold
Botanical Tinted Face Mineral Sunscreen SPF50
79/100
La Roche-Posay
Effaclar Duo+ SPF 30
78/100
Eucerin
Oil Control Sun Gel-Cream Dry Touch SPF50+
78/100
Vichy
Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum
77/100
Technical details
- INCI name
- Phenoxyethanol
- CAS Number
- 122-99-6
- Category
- preservative
- Comedogenic rating
- 0/5