Embracing Nature's Purity: Harnessing Organic Preservatives in Cosmetic Products
In the world of cosmetics, there's a growing concern among consumers about traditional preservatives and their potential side effects. As a result, there's an increasing demand for more natural alternatives.
One such natural preservative is Glyceryl Caprylate, derived from various plant sources such as coconut, palm seed, or rapeseed oil. This ingredient helps control bacterial proliferation, keeps cosmetic formulations homogeneous for longer, and aids in maintaining the freshness and potency of products.
Provital, a company specialising in natural preservatives, has recently introduced a new CareActive™ called Altheostem™. This innovative product uses Pentylene Glycol, Lactic Acid, and Glyceryl Caprylate to preserve cosmetics.
Pentylene Glycol, derived from corn cobs or sugar cane bagasse, inhibits water activity and has antimicrobial properties, making it suitable for sensitive skin and conditions like rosacea. Lactic Acid, obtained from sugar cane bagasse, maintains the pH balance of cosmetic formulations and improves the appearance of skin by softening it.
Other natural preservatives commonly used in cosmetics include Benzyl Alcohol, Salicylic Acid, Sorbic Acid and its salt Potassium Sorbate, Apple Cider Vinegar, and essential oils like tea tree oil, rosemary extract, and lavender essential oil. Sodium Benzoate, a naturally occurring preservative found in fruits like cranberries and cherries, is also safe and accepted by organic standards for cosmetic use.
These natural preservatives offer antimicrobial protection against bacteria, yeasts, and molds while aligning with clean-label and eco-conscious cosmetic trends. They can be used alone or in combination to ensure broad-spectrum preservation while maintaining product safety and stability.
The integration of natural preservatives in cosmetics can make products last longer while minimizing potential side effects. This shift towards natural ingredients is a response to consumer demand for more natural products and aligns with the trend of Clean Beauty, which involves consuming cosmetic products without suspicious or harmful substances.
Traditional preservatives, while safe under appropriate conditions established by cosmetic product regulatory bodies, are being replaced due to concerns about side effects. For instance, Isothiazolinones, a preservative, have been linked to the appearance of dermatitis, while Parabens can alter hormonal levels and the natural state of endocrine systems. Formaldehyde, another common preservative, has caused skin eruptions or allergies in some people and is classified as a possible carcinogen by the U.S. National Toxicology Program.
Some beauty product manufacturers are opting to incorporate natural ingredients with preservative properties to replace traditional preservatives. This trend is expected to continue as consumers continue to seek more natural and side-effect-free ingredients for their cosmetics.
[1] Natural Preservatives for Cosmetics: A Comprehensive Review [2] Natural Preservatives for Skincare and Haircare Products: A Review [3] Natural Preservatives in Cosmetics: A Review [4] Antimicrobial Activity of Lavender Essential Oil and Its Synergy with Tea Tree Oil in Emulsions [5] Sodium Benzoate: A Review of Its Uses, Properties, and Health Effects
- In line with the Clean Beauty trend, consumers are increasingly seeking cosmetics that contain natural preservatives like Glyceryl Caprylate, which not only offer antimicrobial protection but also align with health-and-wellness concerns.
- The shift towards natural preservatives in skin-care products, such as Altheostem™ from Provital, helps address the concerns about traditional preservatives and their potential side effects, contributing to a science-backed movement for clean beauty.
