Iscaguard® PEHG

Uses:

1. Preservation in Cosmetic Formulations:
   • Effective in protecting products from microbial contamination.
   • Suitable for use in water-based and oil-based formulations.
2. Broad Application Scope:
   • Used in skincare products such as creams, lotions, and serums.
   • Suitable for haircare products like shampoos, conditioners, and styling products.
   • Can be incorporated into baby care and sensitive skin products due to its mildness.
3. Wide Compatibility:
   • Effective across a broad pH range (pH 4-9), making it suitable for diverse formulations.

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Benefits:

1. Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Activity:
   • Provides protection against a wide range of bacteria, yeast, and mold.
2. Synergistic Effect:
   • The combination of phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin enhances the preservative efficacy, allowing for lower concentrations to achieve desired protection.
3. Consumer-Friendly:
   • Free from parabens and formaldehyde-releasing agents, meeting consumer demand for safer and “clean label” products.
4. Stability:
   • Remains effective under varying storage and environmental conditions, ensuring long shelf life.
5. Gentle on Skin:
   • Minimizes irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin formulations.
6. Low Odor Impact:
   • Phenoxyethanol is relatively odorless, ensuring it does not interfere with product fragrances.

 

General Guidelines for Using Iscaguard® PEHG

1. Determine Usage Level:
   • The recommended concentration is 0.5–1.5% of the total formulation.
   • The exact amount depends on the product type, water activity, and formulation pH.
2. Ensure Compatibility:
   • pH Range: Works best between 4.0 and 9.0. Adjust your formulation pH accordingly.
   • Compatible with most emulsifiers, surfactants, and active ingredients. Perform a compatibility test if using exotic or highly active components.
3. Incorporation Temperature:
   • Iscaguard® PEHG is heat stable up to 60°C.
   • Add it during the cooling phase (typically below 60°C) to preserve its efficacy. If necessary, it can also be added during the emulsification phase, but avoid excessive heat.
4. Solubility:
   • It is soluble in water and miscible with many cosmetic oils, ensuring ease of use in both water-based and oil-based systems.
   • Pre-dilute in a small amount of compatible solvent (like glycerin or the aqueous phase) if needed for easier dispersion.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Different Formulations

For Creams and Lotions (Emulsions):

1. Create your oil phase (e.g., oils, emulsifiers) and water phase separately.
2. Heat both phases to the required temperature (typically 70–75°C) and emulsify by combining them.
3. Cool the emulsion to below 60°C.
4. Add Iscaguard® PEHG directly to the emulsion and mix thoroughly.
5. Adjust the pH if needed, ensuring it stays within the range of 4–9.

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For Surfactant-Based Products (Shampoos, Body Washes):

1. Prepare the surfactant blend and water phase.
2. Heat the formulation, if necessary, to dissolve thickening agents or active ingredients.
3. Cool the formulation to below 60°C.
4. Add Iscaguard® PEHG and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Conduct pH adjustment (if needed) at this stage.

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For Anhydrous Products (Balms, Lipsticks):

1. While Iscaguard® PEHG is designed for products with water activity, it can still be used in systems exposed to water (e.g., jars where fingers may introduce moisture).
2. Incorporate it directly into the melted mixture of oils and waxes during the cooling phase (below 60°C).
3. Stir until evenly distributed.

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Testing and Validation

1. Preservative Efficacy Testing (PET):
   • Conduct a challenge test to ensure the preservative system protects against microbial contamination effectively.
2. Stability Testing:
   • Verify the stability of Iscaguard® PEHG in the formulation over time and at various temperatures.
3. pH Monitoring:
   • Regularly check and maintain the pH of the product to remain within the effective range for the preservative.