Preservative 12 is a versatile, broad-spectrum preservative containing only two ingredients, which can look cleaner on an ingredients list.

It is vegan friendly, biodegradable and free from formaldehyde and palm-derived ingredients

Preservative 12 is a clear, colourless liquid and is formulated to safeguard cosmetic products from microbial growth, prolong their shelf life, and maintain overall product safety.

Preservative 12 is vegan, biodegradable, and free from formaldehyde and palm-derived ingredients, aligning well with clean beauty standards. Its broad formulation compatibility and minimal effect on product appearance make it a popular choice among formulators. It is particularly valuable in products containing herbal extracts, which are more susceptible to microbial contamination

This blend provides broad-spectrum protection against microorganisms, including gram‑positive and gram‑negative bacteria, yeasts, and moulds. Its wide effective pH range (3–12) makes it suitable for many cosmetic applications, from creams and lotions to serums and gels. It performs especially well in cationic systems, emulsions, and cream-based formulations. However, caution is needed when working with clays, as they can absorb preservatives and leave the water phase vulnerable to microbial growth.

It works well in a wide range of skincare formulations, including those containing aloe vera or hyaluronic acid serums.

Directions for use:

It is usually recommended to use at a percentage of 0.5% to 1%. Generally 1% should work well in most formulations. Where herbal materials are used, such as a decoction, it is suggested to use 1.1%, which is the maximum percentage recommended. Higher amounts may cause skin irritation. 

As Presservative K is not fully water soluable, it works best with creams and lotions. If using in a water based product, such as a toner, it may be solubilised with Polysorbate 20.

It is stable at variable temperatures. We recommend adding it in Stage 3 in creams and lotions, or when the product temperature is under 40°C.

Vegan: Vegan Friendly

Suitable for: Creams, lotions, serums and gels

Colour: Colourless

Scent: Very slight

Solubility: Partially soluble in water; more soluble in oils

Formula: Suitable for both leave on and rinse off

Ingredients: Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin