Aromatic alcohol with mild broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and a rose-like odour, used as a booster in natural preservation systems and as a solvent/fragrance. Typically 0.3-1%.
Function & Common Use
Preservative / Fragrance / Solvent
Preservative / Antimicrobial
Natural preservative blends, rose-scented skincare, lotions, cleansers
Synthetic (nature-identical; occurs in rose, other flowers)
Concentration Limits
No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked
No specific limit; use at self-determined safe level per safety assessment
No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked
No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked
Baby restriction: None identified for standard cosmetic use
Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Phenethyl Alcohol safe to use in skincare?
Phenethyl Alcohol has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Aromatic alcohol with mild broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and a rose-like odour, used as a booster in natural preservation systems and as a solvent/fragrance. Typically 0.3-1%.
Is Phenethyl Alcohol allowed in India?
Phenethyl Alcohol is currently classified as "Permitted; regulated as a cosmetic ingredient under CR 2020" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked.
What is Phenethyl Alcohol used for in cosmetics?
Phenethyl Alcohol functions as: Preservative / Fragrance / Solvent. It is commonly found in: Natural preservative blends, rose-scented skincare, lotions, cleansers.
Can Phenethyl Alcohol cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Phenethyl Alcohol has an allergen flag (Low; rose-like aromatic alcohol, not on EU 26-allergen labelling list). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.
Is Phenethyl Alcohol safe for babies?
Phenethyl Alcohol 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
Identifiers
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Reviewed by The Clean Sheet, with our verdict.