Phenethyl Alcohol
Also known as: Phenethyl alcohol (rose alcohol)
INCI: Phenethyl Alcohol | Function: Preservative | Type: Preservative / Fragrance
What Is Phenethyl Alcohol?
Phenethyl Alcohol (PEA) 是一种天然存在于玫瑰精油、橙花油和其他花卉中的芳香醇。在化妆品中主要作为防腐剂和香料成分使用, 具有广谱抗菌活性。与 caprylyl glycol 等复配使用效果更佳, 是 paraben-free 防腐体系的重要组成部分。Natural-identical 成分, 兼具防腐和天然玫瑰香气的双重功能。
Key Skin Benefits
- + Broad-spectrum antimicrobial — 天然防腐活性
- + Natural-identical — 天然存在于玫瑰精油中
- + Mild — 相对传统防腐剂刺激性更低
Pros
- + Effective preservative with good safety profile
- + Naturally occurring in rose oil — consumer-friendly
- + Non-paraben, non-formaldehyde-releasing
Cons
- − Some individuals may be sensitive to fragrance compounds
- − Less effective alone — needs booster
- − Has a distinct rose scent
Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|
| Usage Areas | Face, Eye, Body, Hair |
| Product Type | Leave-On, Rinse-Off |
| Source | Plant / Synthetic |
| Natural Level | Natural-derived |
Safety Ratings
| Metric | Rating |
|---|
| Skin Sensitivity | 1/5 |
| Comedogenic Rating | 0/5 |
| EWG Score | 2/10 |
Regional Regulatory Limits
| Region | Leave-on % | Rinse-off % | Status |
|---|
| EU (CosIng) | No limit | No limit | Allowed — Annex V preservative |
| US (CIR/FDA) | No limit | No limit | Allowed — CIR safe as used |
| Japan (MHLW) | No limit | No limit | Allowed |
| ASEAN | No limit | No limit | Allowed |
| China (NMPA) | No limit | No limit | Allowed |
Typical Usage % by Product Type
| Product Type | Typical % |
|---|
| Preservative system | 0.3–1% |
| Leave-on skincare | 0.3–0.8% |
| Rinse-off products | 0.5–1% |
References
- EU CosIng Database. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/
- CIR Expert Panel (2012) — Phenethyl alcohol safety. PMID: 22449457
- EWG Skin Deep. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/