Modifying Preservative System in AquaForce™ Dispersions

Regarding your inquiry about modifying the AquaForce™ line of products by replacing the existing preservatives (Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Benzoate) with pentylene glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, or caprylyl glycol, and then adding your own primary preservative, we advise the following:

The AquaForce™ products, including AquaForce™ AVO, AquaForce™ DMTS, AquaForce™ EHT, AquaForce™ BEMT, and AquaForce™ DHHB, are complex water dispersions. Their stability, efficacy, and shelf life are carefully balanced by their current formulation, which includes a specific preservative system.

Considerations for Preservative Replacement:

• Impact on Stability: Replacing the existing preservatives with pentylene glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, or caprylyl glycol, even with the addition of your own primary preservative, could significantly impact the stability of the AquaForce™ dispersions. These glycols are often used as humectants or preservative boosters, but they are generally not considered full-spectrum primary preservatives on their own.
• Formulation Integrity: The current preservative system is integral to maintaining the integrity and safety of the AquaForce™ dispersions. Any modification to this system could compromise the product's stability against microbial growth and potentially affect the dispersion's physical properties.
• Thorough Testing Required: If you proceed with this modification, it is absolutely critical to conduct comprehensive stability testing (including freeze-thaw cycles, elevated temperature storage, and light exposure) and full preservative efficacy testing (challenge testing) on your final formulation. This will ensure that the new preservative system adequately protects the product throughout its intended shelf life and that the AquaForce™ dispersion remains stable.
• Compatibility: While pentylene glycol, 1,2-hexanediol, and caprylyl glycol are generally considered compatible with many cosmetic ingredients, their interaction within the specific AquaForce™ dispersion system, especially concerning the polymer and UV filters, needs to be thoroughly evaluated.

We strongly recommend that any changes to the preservative system of our AquaForce™ products be thoroughly validated through rigorous testing to ensure product safety, stability, and performance.