Organic-acid preservative most effective at acidic pH (below about 5). Works well against yeast and mould. Salts (sodium benzoate) are more water-soluble. Effective only when enough undissociated acid is present, so formula pH is critical.
Function & Common Use
Preservative (antimicrobial, antifungal)
Preservative / Antimicrobial
Rinse-off cleansers, shampoos, wet wipes, some leave-on creams
Synthetic or natural (occurs in benzoin resin, cranberries)
Concentration Limits
No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked
0.5% (acid) as preservative in leave-on; higher permitted in rinse-off and specific product types per Annex V
No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked
0.5% (acid) leave-on; higher in rinse-off per MFDS
Baby restriction: None identified for standard cosmetic use
Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Benzoic Acid safe to use in skincare?
Benzoic Acid has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Organic-acid preservative most effective at acidic pH (below about 5). Works well against yeast and mould. Salts (sodium benzoate) are more water-soluble. Effective only when enough undissociated acid is present, so formula pH is critical.
Is Benzoic Acid allowed in India?
Benzoic Acid is currently classified as "Permitted preservative under CR 2020 (Schedule of permitted preservatives)" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked.
What is Benzoic Acid used for in cosmetics?
Benzoic Acid functions as: Preservative (antimicrobial, antifungal). It is commonly found in: Rinse-off cleansers, shampoos, wet wipes, some leave-on creams.
Is Benzoic Acid safe for babies?
Benzoic Acid has baby/child restrictions: None identified for standard cosmetic use. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
EU Annex: Annex V entry 1
Identifiers
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