Gentle and Natural Preservatives for Cream Formulation, Paraben-Free Alternatives

Question

I am formulating a cream with the following composition:

Oil: 40%
Wax: 28%
Soy Lecithin: 1%
Water: Remaining percentage

I need a gentle and natural preservative that is free from parabens and sodium carbonate. Which preservative should I use and at what percentage? Are there any ingredients that can be used as an alternative to methylparaben?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Gentle and Natural Preservatives for Your Cream Formula

Based on your cream formula (40% oil, 28% wax, 1% soy lecithin, rest water) and your preference for gentle, natural preservatives without parabens or sodium carbonate, here are a few suitable options and alternatives to methylparaben:

Recommended Preservatives

Mild Preserved Eco™ or Mild Preserved SC10™: These are excellent choices as they are known for being gentle and are not classified as preservatives under FDA regulations, allowing for "preservative-free" claims. They also offer some moisturizing benefits. They can be dispersed in oil, which is beneficial for your high oil/wax formula, and can be used in formulas with a pH range of 4-9 (for Mild Preserved Eco™) or up to pH 12 (for Mild Preserved SC10™). The recommended usage rate for general cosmetic formulas is 1.0-1.5%.
Coco-Preserve™: This is a natural preservative derived from coconut extract. It is a broad-spectrum preservative effective against bacteria, yeast, and mold. It is water-soluble and works in formulas with a pH range of 4-8. The recommended usage rate is 1-2%. You would need to incorporate this into the water phase of your formula.
Global Guard™ 221: Another natural, water-soluble, broad-spectrum preservative. It is effective in formulas with a pH between 2-7. The recommended usage rate is 0.5-1.1%. Like Coco-Preserve™, it should be mixed into the water portion and requires mixing below 45°C.
PaeoniaPreserve™: A natural preservative extracted from the Paeonia root. It is water-soluble and can be used as a single preservative at 2% or at 0.5-1.0% in combination with other preservatives. It has a mild natural scent and is yellow in color. Avoid heat above 60°C and add in the final step.