The Preservative Quagmire

Aug 29th, 2023
Steve Schnittger, Ph.D., industry expert and consultant
Chemist Naturals Formulating Concept Preservation Adobe Stock 187290417

Editor’s note: This month’s “back to the basics” theme would be incomplete without a discussion on preservation. In the following commentary, industry expert and consultant Steve Schnittger, Ph.D., previously the vice president of global microbiology and fermentation in R&D for the Estée Lauder Cos., shares his thoughts and suggestions about this pain point for formulators and our industry.

Log in to view the full article
More in Preservation
Benefits of Sustainable and Organic Candelilla in Cosmetics
Sponsored
Benefits of Sustainable and Organic Candelilla in Cosmetics
Discover the benefits of organic candelilla wax in beauty products. From moisturize and create a protective layer to provide shine and consistency, this sustainable alternative is a game-changer. Meet Multiceras' commitment to responsible extraction.
Sep 18th, 2023
Vytrus presented the reversing of microbiota aging at the 2022 Cosmetorium trade show in Barcelona with Quora Noni Biomics.
Vytrus Biotech Launches Quora Noni Biomics, Wins Cosmetorium Awards for Purple Rain
Vytrus presented the reversing of microbiota aging at the 2022 Cosmetorium trade show in Barcelona with Quora Noni Biomics.
Oct 10th, 2022
In the case of fluctuating PET results for w/o products, it can be useful to increase the number of samples to verify the results.
Determining Preservative Efficacy in W/O Formulas, Part II: Making Microbiological Safety Assessments
The relevance of microbiological tests for w/o formulas has been questioned, mandating a more holistic approach. This second article in a series examines the failure rate of PETs for w/o products but looks at why this does not mean insufficient stability.
Oct 5th, 2022
Testing has shown Xpozuki biotech ingredient to protect the skin, scalp and hair, defend and repair from exposome damage, protect the skin barrier and improve skin appearance and more.
Lubrizol Life Science's Xpozuki Biotech Ingredient Offers Exposome Protection
Testing has shown Xpozuki biotech ingredient to protect the skin, scalp and hair, defend and repair from exposome damage, protect the skin barrier and improve skin appearance and more.
Sep 22nd, 2022
'The bio-1,2-alkanediols incorporate a natural and bio-based pathway for antimicrobial effects in various compositions such as cosmetic, pharmaceutical, industrial and household products.'
Bio-based 1,2-Alkanediol Blends Extend Inolex's Patent Portfolio
Comprised of 100% bio-based carbon, the patented compositions are useful for the safe and effective preservation of formulas.
Sep 16th, 2022
The competition was tight, and this year's contenders were put through a grueling review. Who will win? Join us to find out at Sept. 28 Awards Dinner, co-located with Beauty Accelerate. Register now.
Which Base Ingredient Will Win the C&T Allē Award?
Which base ingredient will win the Cosmetics & Toiletries Allē Award? Here are the finalist profiles. Find out who wins on Sept. 28, 2022, at the exclusive Awards Dinner, co-located with Beauty Accelerate. Register now.
Aug 10th, 2022
Microbiological test methods for w/o formulas have raised questions in terms of their suitability. They also require a more critical view of the results than other product types. This first article in a two-part series reviews the limitations of such methods and options for their optimization. It also critically observes to what extent test results provide relevant information for an appropriate safety assessment. Part II, in August 2022, will explore a holistic approach to more accurately assess microbiological safety.
Determining Preservative Efficacy in W/O Formulas, Part I: Test Performance and Limitations
Microbiological test methods for w/o formulas have raised questions in terms of suitability. They also require a more critical view of the results than other product types. This first article in a two-part series reviews the limitations of such methods.
Jul 20th, 2022
Lotions, facial masks, sunscreens and scrubs are reported as the fastest-growing segments for cosmetic preservatives.
Phenols to Lead the Cosmetic Preservatives Charge Through 2027
Phenol derivatives are expected to grow with the highest CAGR, due in part to their gentle, non-irritating nature and the fact that they do not emit formaldehyde.
Jul 19th, 2022
SymClariol is being positioned it as an emollient with antimicrobial properties to protect the skin from scalp to toe.
Symrise Extends SymClariol to Scalp Care, Hygiene
Previously highlighted for skin protection benefits, SymClariol (INCI: Decylene Glycol) is additionally being promoted for antimicrobial and hygiene applications, including anti-dandruff scalp care.
Jul 11th, 2022
The issued US Patent US11291204B2 is titled “Preservatives for cosmetic, toiletry and pharmaceutical compositions” and covers preservation compositions having a C6, C8, C10 or C12 alkylhydroxamic acid including CHA in combination with a variety of medium-chain terminal diols.
Inolex Expands Alkylhydroxamic Acid Tech Patent Portfolio for Cosmetic Preservation
The patent covers preservation compositions having a C6, C8, C10 or C12 alkylhydroxamic acid including CHA combined with medium-chain terminal diols.
Jun 29th, 2022
Work published in Cosmetics outlines how reducing water activity in o/w emulsions by using natural humectants can provide a formulation preservation strategy while improving the skin's barrier function.
Water Activity Strategy Boosts Microbial Stability and Barrier Function
Work published in Cosmetics outlines how reducing water activity in o/w emulsions by using natural humectants can provide a formulation preservation strategy while improving the skin's barrier function.
May 20th, 2022