Benzyl Alcohol

INCI: BENZYL ALCOHOL
Type: Preservative, solvent, perfuming agent
Origin: An aromatic alcohol that occurs naturally in many plants (like jasmine and ylang-ylang) and essential oils. Cosmetic-grade benzyl alcohol is produced via chemical synthesis to ensure purity and consistency.

What it does:

Benzyl Alcohol is a multifunctional ingredient with three distinct, well-established roles in cosmetic formulations. Primary functions:

1. Preservative: Exhibits effective antimicrobial activity, particularly against bacteria and some fungi, helping to protect water-containing products from spoilage and ensuring consumer safety throughout the product’s lifespan.
2. Solvent: Aids in dissolving and stabilizing other ingredients in the formula, particularly certain preservatives, fragrances, and active components that are otherwise difficult to solubilize.
3. Perfuming agent: Possesses a mild, pleasant, slightly sweet floral scent that can contribute to the overall fragrance profile of a product.

Why we use it:

We include Benzyl Alcohol as a component of our multi-ingredient preservative system, valued for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial contribution and its ability to help solubilize other preservative ingredients.

Approved for cosmetic use in all major markets, including the EU, with a long-established safety profile.