Optiphen

Optiphen 

Optiphen is a globally recognized, paraben-free preservative system designed for use in cosmetic and personal care formulations. It is a synthetic blend primarily composed of phenoxyethanol and caprylyl glycol, engineered to provide broad protection against microbial growth while maintaining formulation flexibility. Optiphen does not contain parabens, formaldehyde donors, halogenated preservatives, or ethoxylated components, making it compatible with modern clean-leaning formulation strategies where efficacy and regulatory acceptance are both required.

The system functions through a dual mechanism: phenoxyethanol provides primary antimicrobial activity, while caprylyl glycol enhances preservation efficacy by disrupting microbial cell membranes and contributing secondary humectant and skin-conditioning benefits. This combination allows Optiphen to perform effectively across a wide pH range and in a variety of formulation types, including emulsions, surfactant systems, and anhydrous-leaning products.

In cosmetic and skincare applications, Optiphen is used as a full or partial preservation system in creams, lotions, serums, cleansers, masks, and hair care products. It is valued for its ease of use, broad compatibility with common emulsifiers and surfactants, and its ability to maintain product safety without compromising sensory profile. Because it is not acid-dependent, Optiphen is particularly useful in formulations where pH adjustment is limited or undesirable.

From a Clean Standards and safety perspective, Optiphen has an established history of safe cosmetic use and is widely accepted within U.S., EU, and international regulatory frameworks. While phenoxyethanol is synthetically produced, it is permitted in clean and “no-paraben” positioning when used within approved limits and supported by transparent labeling. Optiphen is commonly selected for formulations balancing consumer expectations, regulatory compliance, and robust microbial protection.

Ingredient Identification

• INCI Name: Phenoxyethanol (and) Caprylyl Glycol

• CAS Numbers:

  • Phenoxyethanol: 122-99-6

  • Caprylyl Glycol: 1117-86-8

Physical & Technical Properties

• Appearance: Clear to slightly hazy liquid

• Odor: Mild, characteristic

• Solubility: Oil-soluble; dispersible in water with proper formulation

• pH Range: Effective approximately pH 4.0–8.0

• Functional Role: Broad-spectrum preservative system, microbial control

Typical Usage Levels (Cosmetics & Personal Care)

• Lotions & Creams: 0.5–1.0%

• Serums & Emulsions: 0.5–1.0%

• Cleansers & Surfactant Systems: 0.75–1.5%

• Hair Care Products: 0.5–1.0%

Actual usage levels depend on formulation type, water activity, and overall preservation strategy. Challenge testing is recommended to confirm efficacy.

Formulation Compatibility & Common Combinations

Optiphen is commonly used with:

• Nonionic and anionic surfactants

• Emulsifying waxes and glyceryl stearate systems

• Chelators such as sodium phytate or EDTA to enhance preservation performance

• Additional multifunctional ingredients for hurdle-based preservation approaches

Optiphen is typically added during the cool-down phase below 40 °C to preserve component integrity and ensure uniform distribution.

Regulatory & Safety Notes

• Regulatory Status: Approved for cosmetic use globally, including the United States and European Union, within established concentration limits

• EU Restriction (Phenoxyethanol): Maximum 1.0% in finished cosmetic products

• California Proposition 65: Not listed

• EWG Context: Phenoxyethanol generally rated moderate hazard due to dose-dependent irritation potential; widely accepted at compliant cosmetic levels

• Irritation & Sensitization: Not classified as sensitizing when used within recommended cosmetic concentrations

• Clean Beauty Compatibility: Paraben-free, formaldehyde-free, non-ethoxylated; commonly accepted in clean-leaning and transparent formulation standards when clearly disclosed