Preservative Boosters for Phenoxyethanol

1,2-Hexanediol is a commonly used preservative booster for Phenoxyethanol, but it is not the only substance that can serve this purpose.

• 1,2-Hexanediol: This ingredient is known to significantly enhance the effectiveness of preservatives like Phenoxyethanol. It helps carry the preservative into microbial cells more easily. A recommended usage rate is around 3% 1,2-Hexanediol used with a reduced amount of Phenoxyethanol (e.g., 0.3% Phenoxyethanol with 3% 1,2-Hexanediol can be as effective as 0.8% Phenoxyethanol alone).

• Propanediol (1,3-Propanediol): Propanediol also functions as a preservative booster. While the product description provides a general usage rate of 1-20% for its various benefits (humectant, solvent, booster), it confirms its ability to boost preservative efficacy. The optimal percentage for boosting Phenoxyethanol specifically would depend on the overall formulation and would require challenge testing to confirm effectiveness.

In summary, you are not limited to only using 1,2-Hexanediol as a booster for Phenoxyethanol. Propanediol is a viable alternative, and other ingredients may also offer boosting properties. Always perform challenge testing on your final formulation to ensure adequate preservation.