Preservatives for Lip Butter

For lip butter in a jar that is applied with fingers, choosing a suitable preservative is crucial due to the high risk of microbial contamination from repeated contact. Cosmetic grade preservatives are appropriate for lip products. While not strictly food grade, some cosmetic preservatives are formulated with ingredients commonly used in food, making them highly suitable for products that may be ingested in small amounts, like lip butter.

Based on the recommendations and product information, here are some suitable options:

• Global Guard™: This preservative is highly preferred for oral care products because its main components (Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate) are well-known for their use in food. It is effective at a concentration of 1.0-1.5% and works in formulas with a pH less than 5.5. It is a liquid and mixes into the water phase.
• Global Guard™ 221: This is another globally approved, water-soluble broad-spectrum preservative. It is effective at a low usage rate of 0.5-1.1% and works in a wider pH range of 2-7. It is a liquid and can be mixed in any step below 45°C.
• NaturePreserve™ Ultra: This is a natural preservative derived from corn. It is effective at 0.75-2.0% and works in a pH range of 3-6. It is a powder and mixes into the water phase. The description notes that for cream jars requiring contact with outside germs, a level of 1.5-2.0% is recommended.
• NaturePreserve™ LB2: This acts as an anti-bacterial agent, highly effective against bacteria and fungi at low pH values (2.0-6.5). It is a liquid, water-soluble, and used at 0.5-1.0%. Avoid heat exceeding 50°C.

All these preservatives offer broad-spectrum protection suitable for preventing contamination in a lip butter formulation used from a jar. The choice between them may depend on the desired pH of your final product, whether you prefer a liquid or powder ingredient, and specific formulation compatibility.

Regarding shelf life, the preservatives themselves typically have a minimum shelf life of 2-3 years. However, the actual shelf life of your finished lip butter product depends on many factors, including the cleanliness of the manufacturing process, packaging, storage conditions, and importantly, how it is used by the consumer (e.g., finger dipping). To determine the precise shelf life and ensure the preservative is effective in your specific formula, a challenge test is strongly recommended before selling the product. With proper preservation and hygienic use, a lip butter can typically last for several months up to a year or more after opening, but this must be verified through testing.

Avoid using Phenonip® P4 as previously advised.

Remember to always follow the recommended usage rates and mixing instructions for the chosen preservative.