INCI Name
Benzyl Alcohol (and)...
Functions
3 Roles
Sustainability
7/10
Category
preservatives
What It Does
Ecoguard is a synergistic multi-component preservative system combining benzyl alcohol's broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity with salicylic acid's keratolytic and antimicrobial properties, enhanced by glycerin's humectant benefits and sorbic acid's antifungal efficacy. This liquid blend is specifically designed for natural and organic cosmetic formulations, offering effective preservation at lower pH ranges while maintaining a clean label profile. Formulators choose this system because it provides robust protection against bacteria, yeast, and mold while the glycerin component adds moisturizing benefits, making it particularly suitable for leave-on products and formulations seeking natural preservation alternatives.
Technical Properties
pH Range
3.5-5.5
Optimal working range
Ionic Charge
nonionic
Molecular charge type
Viscosity Effect
neutral
Impact on formula thickness
Ingredient Compatibility
Known Interactions
Retinol and Salicylic Acid together increase irritation risk. Salicylic Acid's optimal pH (2.5-4) destabilizes Retinol. Best used in separate routines.
Combining AHA (Glycolic) and BHA (Salicylic) at full concentrations significantly increases irritation risk and can compromise the skin barrier. If combining, reduce concentrations of both.
Combining AHA (Lactic) and BHA (Salicylic) increases exfoliation beyond what most skin can tolerate. Reduce concentrations if combining, or use in separate products.
Tretinoin combined with Salicylic Acid causes excessive exfoliation and irritation. Both are potent actives that thin the stratum corneum. Do not combine at full strength.
Sustainability Profile
Sustainability Score
Biodegradability
readily biodegradable
Source
mixed
Feedstock
benzyl alcohol from plant sources, salicylic acid from willow bark or synthetic, glycerin from plant oils, sorbic acid from fermentation
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Available Variants
2 forms available
Liquid Blend
Standard
Quick Reference
- Full INCI Name
- Benzyl Alcohol (and) Salicylic Acid (and) Glycerin (and) Sorbic Acid
- Common Name
- Ecoguard (Natural Preservative)
- Category
- preservatives
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