Top 5 Preservatives Every DIY Cosmetic Brand Should Know in 2025
Why a Good Preservative Is Your Formula’s Best Friend
Even the most beautiful ingredients need protection. In water-based or emulsion formulas, preservatives guard against mold, bacteria, and yeast. Choosing the right one ensures your creations remain safe, effective, and long-lasting.
1. Optiphen Plus: Clean, Oil-Friendly Protection
Optiphen Plus is a paraben- and formaldehyde-free system that combines phenoxyethanol with caprylyl glycol. It performs reliably in oil-rich formulations like balms and body butters perfect when you want clean preservation without compromising texture.
2. Geogard ECT: Gentle and Broad-Spectrum
A blend of benzyl alcohol, salicylic acid, glycerin, and sorbic acid, Geogard ECT offers gentle yet broad coverage against bacteria, mold, and yeast. It’s a favorite for natural or sensitive formulations that need a subtle but effective shield.
3. Euxyl PE 9010: High-Efficacy, Paraben-Free Defense
Euxyl PE 9010 brings broad-spectrum protection through a duo of phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin. It’s fast-acting, strong against contamination, and excels in plant-rich, moisture-prone formulas.
4. Euxyl K 903: Gentle Enough for Sensitive Skin
Designed for low-sting applications like baby wipes and eye creams, Euxyl K 903 blends benzyl alcohol with organic acids and natural tocopherol. It’s paraben- and formaldehyde-free, yet robust enough to keep formulas fresh even in delicate pH ranges.
5. Propanediol 1,3: A Smart Preservative Booster
While not a standalone preservative, Propanediol 1,3 enhances the effectiveness of other preservatives like phenoxyethanol. Made from corn sugar, this natural solvent also deeply hydrates and supports formula stability under stress.
