Broad-spectrum preservative system for cosmetic formulations (pH 3–8); add during cool-down (<45°C).
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Broad-spectrum preservative system for cosmetic formulations (pH 3–8); add during cool-down (<45°C).
Global Guard™ ECT is a broad-spectrum preservation system (INCI: Benzyl Alcohol & Salicylic Acid & Glycerin & Sorbic Acid) designed to help protect cosmetic formulas against bacteria, yeast, and mold.
It is supplied as a clear liquid preservative blend for a wide range of personal care formats (leave-on and rinse-off), with broad pH compatibility (pH 3–8).
Recommended use level is 0.6-1.0% in the finished product; add during cool-down (below 45 °C) and confirm the final formula pH is within the supported window.
Product description: Global Guard™ ECT combines an aromatic alcohol (benzyl alcohol) with organic acids (salicylic acid and sorbic acid) in a humectant carrier (glycerin). The multi-component system is designed for broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservation and is intended for use across diverse surfactant, gel, and emulsion systems.
Microbiological challenge testing summary (CTFA challenge test, 1.0% use level): five representative formulas were inoculated and sampled at 24 hours, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. After 28 days, samples were re-inoculated for a second challenge. Target organisms included S. aureus, K. pneumoniae + E. gergoviae, P. aeruginosa + B. cepacia, C. albicans, and mixed molds.
| Model/System | pH | Observed Outcome (1.0% Global Guard™ ECT) |
|---|---|---|
| Hair conditioner (high-water emulsion) | 3.9 | Rapid reduction and maintained low counts through day 28 and after rechallenge |
| Make-up remover (aqueous cleanser) | 5.15 | Rapid reduction and maintained low counts through day 28 and after rechallenge |
| Make-up remover (high-surfactant system) | 8.1 | Maintained low counts through day 28 and after rechallenge (pH at upper limit of stated window) |
| Water-in-oil emulsion cream | N/A | Maintained low counts through day 28 and after rechallenge |
| Lotion (high-water emulsion) | 7.85 | Maintained low counts through day 28 and after rechallenge |
Regulatory/labeling notes (formulator responsibility):
- EU: consider limits for Benzyl Alcohol, Salicylic Acid, and Sorbic Acid in the finished product; salicylic acid restrictions apply for products intended for children under 3 (except shampoo).
- Japan: benzyl alcohol may have restrictions when used specifically as a preservative; verify local requirements for your product category.
Usage: Preservation of emulsions, gels, toners, cleansers/surfactant systems, hair care products, and make-up remover systems.
Mixing method:
- Add during cool-down, below 45 °C.
- For emulsions: add post-emulsification when the batch is below 45 °C and mix until uniform.
- Confirm final product pH is within 3-8; outside this range, preservation performance may change.
Usage rate: 0.6-1.0%
Delivered-active estimate: at 0.6-1.0% use level, this blend typically delivers ~0.46-0.86% Benzyl Alcohol, ~0.05-0.15% Salicylic Acid, ~0.02-0.06% Glycerin, and ~0.01-0.04% Sorbic Acid (ranges derived from the compositional ranges in the COA).
Product characteristics: Clear, colorless to straw-colored liquid; characteristic odor; Gardner color ≤ 2.
Solubility: Soluble in water and glycols.
Storage: Store tightly closed at room temperature and protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
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