Natural Preservatives for Scrub Formulation
Question
I want to make a skin scrub using natural ingredients like almond powder, olive oil or coconut oil, and possibly coffee powder and honey. I need recommendations for natural preservatives to achieve a shelf life of 6-12 months. What natural preservatives are suitable for this type of formulation?
Answer
Recommended Natural Preservatives
- Coco-Preserve™: This preservative is derived from coconut extract, making it a great natural option. It is water-soluble and provides broad-spectrum protection against bacteria, yeast, and mold. It works effectively over a pH range of 4-8. Add it during the cool-down phase (below 50°C).
- PaeoniaPreserve™: Another natural preservative extracted from the Paeonia root. It is effective against a broad range of microbes and is water-soluble. It has a mild natural scent and is typically used at 2% when used alone. Avoid heating above 60°C.
- Global Guard™ 221: This is a natural, water-soluble, broad-spectrum preservative effective against bacteria, mold, and yeast. It works in a pH range of 2-7 and is used at a low rate (0.5-1.1%). Add it when the temperature is below 45°C.
- NaturePreserve™ LB2: A natural origin, water-soluble preservative offering broad-spectrum efficacy against bacteria and fungi. It is effective at lower pH values (2.0-6.5). Add it when the temperature is below 50°C.
Other natural broad-spectrum options include:
- NaturePreserve™ Ultra: This is a natural preservative blend (Gluconolactone & Sodium Benzoate) that is effective against bacteria, fungi, and yeast. It is a powder and water-soluble, but works best in a pH range of 3-6.
- Thyme Care™: Extracted from Thyme and Rosewood, this natural preservative is effective against bacteria and other microbes and works over a wide pH range (2-10). However, it has a noticeable thyme scent which might require masking with other fragrances. It is soluble in oil, glycol, and alcohol.
Preservatives like Sorbic Acid and Dehydroacetic Acid are effective against yeast and mold but are not sufficient on their own to protect against bacteria, so they would need to be combined with another antibacterial agent.
To ensure the effectiveness of the preservative in your specific formulation and achieve the desired shelf life, it is highly recommended to perform a challenge test. This test confirms that the chosen preservative system is adequate to protect your product from microbial contamination over time.
Related Products Mentioned
Thyme Care™ (natural preservative)
PaeoniaPreserve™ (Natural Preservative)
Global Guard™ 221 (pH 2-7, Natural)