Is Phenoxyethanol Safe?

One thing is certain regarding the use of phenoxyethanol.It is not "natural". It is chemically produced in a lab by treating phenol with ethylene oxide in an alkaline medium. So if you are looking for products that are made without synthetic chemicals, preservatives or potentially harmful ingredients, make sure it does not contain this preservative. Phenoxyethanol has become the preservative of choice replacing parabens. It is considered a safer alternative and also quite inexpensive to produce making it an ideal contender in the skincare and cosmetic industry. 

As to it's safety, TheCampaign for Safe Cosmetics and Breast Cancer Protection Partners has this to say

Phenoxyethanol is used as a preservative in cosmetic products and also as a stabilizer in perfumes and soaps.[1] Exposure to phenoxyethanol has been linked to reactions ranging from eczema[2] to severe, life-threatening allergic reactions.[3] Infant oral exposure to phenoxyethanol can acutely affect nervous system function.[4]

For these reasons Uplift Clean Beauty chooses not to include phenoxyethanol in any products.  

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