Optiphen Plus

A widely used broad-spectrum cosmetic preservative system designed to keep skin, hair and body care products safe from microbial contamination (bacteria, yeast, mold), while being free from parabens and formaldehyde/formaldehyde donors.

INCI: Phenoxyethanol (and) Caprylyl Glycol (and) Sorbic acid

Form: Clear to slightly yellow liquid

Type: Broad-spectrum preservative blend used in cosmetic and personal care formulations.

How It Works

• Phenoxyethanol: Main antimicrobial agent targeting bacteria and some fungi.
• Caprylyl Glycol: Emollient that improves skin feel and enhances preservative performance.
• Sorbic Acid: Helps protect against yeast, mold, and fungi, boosting the preservative’s antifungal range.
• This synergistic blend gives broad-spectrum protection in many personal care systems.

Key Benefits

• Paraben-free & Formaldehyde-free
• Popular in clean and mild cosmetic formulations.
• Broad spectrum: Helps protect against bacteria, yeast, and mold.
• Emollient effect: Caprylyl glycol adds conditioning feel to the product.
• Globally approved: Widely accepted for use in cosmetics internationally.

Where You Can Use It

Optiphen Plus works in a variety of formulations, especially those that are water-containing or emulsions, such as:

• Lotions & creams
• Serums & gels
• Shampoos & conditioners
• Body washes & cleansers
• Hair styling products

It performs best in mildly acidic products with a pH typically below 6.0.

Usage & Formulation Tips
Recommended level: 0.7%– 1.5 % of total formulation weight.
Cosmetic Ingredients Guide
Add in cool-down phase: Usually when the batch is below 40–60 °C to avoid degrading activity.

Compatibility: Works with many raw materials but avoid carbomer gels, because sorbic acid can disrupt the gel network (typical for carbomer thickeners).