Colipa - The European Cosmetics Association

Preservatives

Preservatives are included in cosmetic formulations to ensure that products are safe to use for a long time. They protect cosmetics from contamination by micro-organisms present in the air, in water and on our own skin.

Cosmetics contaminated with bacteria and yeasts could cause irritations or infections, particularly on damaged or broken skin, or the sensitive areas around the eyes. To prevent this, preservatives are used.

The safety of preservatives

Consumer health and safety is the main reason for including preservatives in cosmetics. Safety is the number one priority for the industry, therefore, preservatives are included in product manufacture to prevent contamination by micro-organisms during use.

Strict rules govern the inclusion of preservatives in cosmetics. Throughout Europe, manufacturers must choose from only those preservatives listed in the EU Cosmetics Directive. These have been subjected to scientific tests and approval procedures before they are permitted for use as cosmetic ingredients. Parabens are an example of widely used approved preservatives.

Preventing contamination

There are dozens of ways for cosmetics to come into contact with bacteria present in even the cleanest homes. Also warm, steamy bathrooms where cosmetics are often used and stored are ideal breeding grounds for bacteria.

Without preservatives, cosmetics would have to be kept cool and would spoil in the same way as perishable food. Treating cosmetics like fresh food would be very costly and inconvenient for consumers—installing a refrigerator in the bathroom is not a practical option.

Just a small amount of preservative can protect cosmetics from contamination over a long period.

Thanks to preservatives, consumers can be confident that their cosmetic products are safe for use. In Europe, many products display an open jar symbol indicating how many months they can be used once they are open. Before opening, most cosmetics will remain stable and free from contamination for many years.

Products that contain preservatives

Most cosmetics need preservatives, including products made from natural ingredients such as jojoba, fruit pulp and plant extracts.

There are a few exceptions—perfumes, deodorants and hair sprays with a high alcohol content, for example. For all other products, preservatives have an important and beneficial role to play.

Allergic reaction to preservatives

Allergy to preservatives is rare but a very small number of people could have an allergic reaction to certain substances.

The ingredients in cosmetic products are labelled in accordance with EU legislation. This means that people with sensitivities can be aware of any preservatives in product formulations that could trigger an allergic reaction.

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