Preservatives Quick Guide

Preservatives are an important part of DIY bath and body products.  Why they are important?  It is because they help prevent mold and bacteria growth, which extends the shelf life of your products and makes them safe to use.  The recommendation for using preservatives is to use them in prodicuts made with water or products that get water splashed during use.  But you are probably wondering if you need to use a preserative for soap?  To answer your question, the post from The Soap Queen  entitled Preseratives Quick Guide will tell you what you need to know. According to author, the posting gives you general rules and may be different based on your preference, how the product will be used, whether you are selling the product, etc.

More questions about preservatives!

Have you wondered if citric acid is a preservative?  And how much preservative should you use?  Well good news! I found a post from Point of Interest about his very subject.  More Questions about Preservatives answers all of the questions about preservatives that you may have so take a look to see if your question is there.  I always wondered about Citric Acid.

Perfectly Preserved + a body butter recipe

If you are confused about using a preservative in your lotions?  Well, Susan Barkley-Nichols of Point of Interest, author and cosmetic chemist is a recent guest blogger for the Soap Queen's blog writing about this issue.  In her posting called Perfectly Preserved + A Body Butter Recipe clears up the confusion. It definately has some really good information that should be read.  And you can always follow Susan on her own blog Point of Interest.

Why do we need preservatives in products containing water?

Are you wondering why you need to add a preservative in your body products that contain water? Would you believe that microbes need water and oxygen to live?  Just give them the right conditions and they can breed like bunnies. If you want to learn more about this subject,  I would recommend reading Point of Interests' post titled Why do we need preservatives in products containing water?  This post has some good information in addition to links to other postings including a video on the importance of preservatives.

What is Phenoxyethanol?

Have you heard of the preservative Phenoxyethanol?  Well according to Wikipeidia it is is an organic chemical compound, a glycol ether often used in dermatological products such as skin creams and sunscreen. It is a colorless oily liquid. It is a bactericide (usually used in conjunction with quaternary ammonium compounds), often used in place of sodium azide in biological buffers as 2-phenoxyethanol is less toxic and non-reactive with copper and lead. It is used in many applications such as cosmetics, vaccines, and pharmaceuticals as a preservative.  It can be used as a fixitive in perfumes and other topical items.  And can be used as a an ingredient in vaccines.  If you would like to learn more about Phenoxyethanol, then check out the Phenoxyethanol on Wikipedia.

A Natural Preservative...The $64,000 Question

Ever since I took a lotion class way back in 2008, I have been hearing alot about preservatives and arguments for and against using them in the products I make.  There are concerns that some preservatives that contain parabens causing cancer, yada, yada, yada and if there is a natural subsitute.  Then there is a debate whether or not there is a "natural" subsitute.  I found this article titled, The Greate Debate: Is There a Natural Prservative?  by Erica of The Bonnie Bath Company.  In her informative article, Erica goes into depth about the great debate, business trends, complications, and more about this subject.  It is highly recommended reading on this subject that you will want to read. 

Preservative: Cosmocil CQ

If you are concerned about some perservatives having parabens, I found another preservative that you can chose from.  I have never used Cosmocial CQ before so I do not know how well it works.  I have always used Germall.  Give it a try if you like and let us know what you think.

Cosmocil cq has recently received world-wide approval and is now available (from "lotioncrafter" and "snowdrift farm"). this new preservative is parabens free and does not release formaldehyde. Like phenonip, cosmocil cq can be used at higher temperatures -- up to 284°f (140°c), but unlike phenonip, it is low-odor so you won't have to deal with camouflaging the smell. Unfortunately, cosmocil cq is only water soluble (add to the water phase), so unlike phenonip, it's not miscible in oil and can't be used in an all-oil produce (e.g. salt/sugar scrubs). the usage rate ranges from .5% to 1.5%, with the typical usage rate being 1% of your total formula. Cosmocil cq is composed of and should be labeled as: polyaminopropyl biguanide.

For more information about preservatives for your body products, check out this link http://home.earthlink.net/~skinesscentuals/Preserve.htm.

What are Parabens?

If you have been reading the labels of your bath and body products, you maybe see some ingredients that include the word "paraben". And you are wondering what ia paraben is?  Right?  As you will read that parabens are a preservative in cosmetics. And there is some worry that parabens pose some health risk.  If you are concerned about using perservatives in your body products and worry about the parabens. On the other hand you do not like the inconvenience of storing your products in the fridge or not lasting that long.  There are  preservatives that are paraben free and those could subsituted instead.  If you would like to learn more about what a paraben is, then you should read on.  According to wisegeeks.com,

"Parabens are a group of chemical compounds which are widely used as preservatives, especially in cosmetics. In addition to being used in cosmetics, parabens are also utilized by the pharmaceutical industry, and they sometimes appear as food additives as well. Parabens have been a topic of some controversy, due to consumer concerns about their safety, which explains why you may find products voluntarily labeled as “paraben free,” using their ingredients as a selling point for concerned consumers.

These chemicals are esters of para-hydroxybenzoic acid. Esters are defined as chemical compounds in which an acid molecule has bonded with an alcohol molecule, displacing a water molecule. Some parabens actually appear in nature, generated by plants as a way of defending themselves from fungal and bacterial invaders. The parabens used commercially are typically generated synthetically, ensuring that the products remain consistent, so that companies can be assured that they will work.

Typically, the concentration of parabens in cosmetics is very low, often less than 1%. A mixture of parabens may be used to create the best preservative effect, ensuring that molds, fungi, bacteria, and other unwanted visitors will not contaminate a product. It is also possible to use naturally derived preservatives, such as grape seed extract, but many of these substances have not been fully tested for efficacy, raising concerns about the safety and shelf life of products preserved with these substances.

Concentrations of parabens in other products, like foods and pharmaceuticals, are similarly quite low. As a general rule, companies use a minimal amount of preservatives, using laboratory testing to determine the best concentration.

Health concerns about parabens are primarily focused on their potential to act like estrogen compounds in the body. Substances which behave like estrogens are known as estrogenic compounds, and they do pose some health risks, especially when consumed in high volumes. Estrogens primarily impact the endocrine system, potentially creating an increased cancer risk. People who are concerned about parabens argue that their estrogenic traits make them too dangerous to use in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

However, there have been a number of studies on this issue, both from inside the cosmetics industry and outside of it. These studies have found that while parabens certainly do have estrogenic qualities, they are probably safe in very small amounts. People and companies who adopt a “best practices” approach may choose to stay away from parabens, as future risks may be identified, or they may turn out to bioaccummulate in the body."


Source: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-parabens.htm

Geogard® Ultra Powder from Southern Soapers

Southern Soapers has the following item in testing phase: Geogard® Ultra is a biocide introduced by Lonza in 2005 to meet the growing demand for alternative cosmetic preservatives. With growing concerns over traditional preservatives such as parabens.

Geogard® Ultra provides a single solution to companies seeking alternatives to traditional preservatives. Geogard® Ultra’s global regulatory acceptance, broad-spectrum activity and multifunctionality means it can be utilized in a wide variety of cosmetic products like shampoos, lotions and skin creams. Unlike traditional cosmetic preservatives, Geogard® Ultra can be used in cosmetic products that are marketed in major markets around the world: Europe, Japan, North America and South America.

Geogard® Ultra helps prevent product spoilage by utilizing less aggressive: “Hurdle Technology.” Instead of a harsh, aggressive approach with bacteria and fungi, Geogard® Ultra primarily functions by creating a more hostile environment within the formulation for microbes to overcome. Potentiators within Geogard® Ultra help create such hurdles, increasing the self-preserving environment of formulations.Geogard® Ultra also provides greater utility with its multifunctional action. Geogard® Ultra not only provides effective protection against product spoilage, but it can also increase the skin moisturizing capacity of the formulation.Preservation

Application:

*Naturally Derived Product.

*Broad spectrum protection across pH range of 3.0-6.5, if pH depression occurs, the formulation can be adjusted with citrate or phosphate buffering systems.

*Geogard Ultra is fully compatible with a wide variety of formulation ingredients as well as most types of cationic, nonionic, and anionic systems.


*Geogard Ultra is soluble up to 4% in ambient water and can be dispersed in glycols and alkyl sulphates.


*Improves skin moisture content.


*Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) ingredients.


*Exceptional toxicity profile, long history of use, non-sensitizing and non-irritating.


*No Animal testing, non GMO. Recommended use level: is .75% - 2.0% of total formulation weight, for both rinse off and leave on formulations.Directions: Add to formulation at temps of up to 75°C (167°F) or lower.INCI: Gluconolactone (and) Sodium Benzoate. MSDS for Geogard Ultra

If you are interested in ordering this product or checking out other preservatives, go to Southern Soapers http://www.southernsoapers.com/cart/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=21.

Source: http://southernsoapers.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=21&products_id=703&zenid=fc30b559623d2bf06f3a3c2b1218a3ce

Phenonip (Preservative)

INCI: Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Butylparaben, Propylparaben, Isobutylparaben.

Deactivated by some PEG compounds.Water should be heated to 140 - 158 degrees F to properly dissolve the preservative. Phenonip can be used at higher heat levels without losing effectiveness and with higher oil concentrations than most other preservatives.

To ensure a complete preservation, add ½ of the preservative to the water portion and the other ½ to the oils portion before emulsifying.

pH restrictions – 3-8

Is a complete preservative in that it covers microbial, fungus, and yeast.Recommended Use Level - .5-1.0%


Source: http://www.craftserver.com/forums/showthread.php?p=199218

Using Preservatives to Extend the Shelf Life of Your Products

Commercial products are typically loaded with preservatives to allow them to remain fresh during the long span between the time of manufacture and the time the customer finishes using it. Although the preservatives do extend the longevity of the products and help keep them free from bacteria, the preservatives themselves are often unhealthy. Many cause or promote skin problems and some are even reported to cause cancer. Individuals who are sensitive to these preservatives need to find preservative-free products.

Are there any natural preservatives? Not really. Natural substances that show antimicrobial activity are either not adequate for broad spectrum protection or they have undesirable qualities. Most natural substances are not active against the most threatening microbes, pseudomonads. Others, such as essential oils, require very high concentrations to be effective. Some have offensive odors or colors that would be unacceptable in skin care products. Many become inactivated by manufacturing procedures and other factors. So a natural preservative is not really an option.

One of the many advantages to handcrafting your own natural products is that you can eliminate or minimize the use of harmful preservatives. Instead, you can adapt more natural methods of preserving and/or using your products.

Preservative-Free Formulations

It's important to remember that your preservative-free, natural products will not stay fresh for as long as commercial products do. By making your products in small batches that you use up within a short period of time, your products will stay fresh and you eliminate the need to preserve your products with harsh chemical preservatives. Formulating anhydrous products is another way to eliminate the need for chemical antimicrobial preservatives. Bar soaps typically do not require an antimicrobial but stay fresher when an antioxidant is used. You do have natural antioxidants available to you for this purpose. Switch to the use of natural balms made of oil and butter instead of creams and lotions which require an antimicrobial preservative. Create dry bath products such as bath salts, milk baths, bath bombs, bath teas etc. to eliminate the need for antimicrobial preservatives. Salt scrubs, bath oils, bath melts and other oil based products can stay fresh as long as water is not introduced to the container during use. Again, you may wish to use a natural antioxidant to keep the oils fresh. Minimize contamination potential by choosing your packaging carefully. Dispensing bottles are better than open mouth jars. Direct sunlight and UV rays, oxygen, heat, moisture and bacteria from your fingers can all be detrimental to your products. Below are several tips for protecting and preserving your preservative free formulations:

Be sure your hands, work surface, and utensils are clean/sterile when preparing your products. This will help ensure that you do not introduce bacteria or contaminate your batch. Commercial skin care production is undertaken in extremely clean and sterile environments for this same reason.

Store your products in dark containers or opaque packaging to keep them away from the harmful effects of sunlight. We offer a wide selection of packaging solutions for your products.

Ensure that your packaging is airtight. Natural products can oxidize and go rancid when exposed to air.

Heat can also be damaging to natural products. Store products in a cupboard or other cool place.
Because our fingers can be a host to bacteria, try to avoid dipping your fingers into your jars and bottles. Instead, use a clean spoon, toothpick, popsicle stick or other appropriate utensil to obtain the amount that you wish to use. Lotion pumps and PET bottles with turret or disc tops are wonderful for dispensing more fluid ingredients such as lotions and gels.

When You Have to Have an Antimicrobial Preservative

If you are formulating something that contains water, milk, hydrosols or other aqueous liquids, you will have to preserve the product or use it within 3-4 days refrigerated. It simply is not optional. Water provides a medium for harmful bacteria, mold, yeast and fungi to grow over time. If used, a contaminated product could cause severe health problems, blindness and even death. Your product must be adequately preserved to prevent contamination and microbial growth.

So what are your options and how will your product differ from those found on store shelves?
First, even with a preservative, your product is still a healthier alternative to commercial products because the remaining ingredients within your product are natural or gentle.

Second, you won't use unnecessarily high levels of preservatives like most commercial manufacturers use.
Your options will be based on your formulation and what it contains. Essential oils are the most natural antimicrobials you will find. Some natural product manufacturers have successfully used oils such as tea tree or combinations of various essential oils to maintain product integrity. According to Preservatives for Cosmetics by David C. Steinberg, essential oils that have demonstrated antimicrobial activity include caraway, cinnamon, clove, cumin, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon, rose, rosemary, sage, sandalwood and thyme. Unfortunately, the percentage required to adequately protect a product from microbial growth generally exceeds the recommendations for safe amounts of essential oils to use in skin care products. Grapefruit seed extract or citricidals are another class of antimicrobials that are considered by some to be more natural than the parabens. Choose your citricidal preservative carefully as some of them have questionable ingredients. A good quality citrus seed extract should not contain additional preservatives. Parabens are preservatives that are available in small quantities for crafters and small businesses. Paraben based preservatives include Germaben, Germaben II, Phenonip, Methyparaben and other types such as Germall and LiquaPar Oil.


Antioxidants

An anti-oxidant is a preservative that reduces the rate of oxidation in oils that oxidize quickly. Oxidation is a chemical process that occurs when oils or other natural ingredients are exposed to oxygen. Anti-oxidants extend the shelf life of your products by reducing the rate of oxidation of your oils. Use an antioxidant in any formulation which contains fragile oils such as sweet almond, hemp, avocado, flax or evening primrose. You can add antioxidants directly to your oils to help keep them fresh, or you can add the antioxidant to the oil phase of your recipe. Lip balms, lotion bars, creams, lotions, scrubs and any other product containing oils can benefit from the addition of an antioxidant.

T-50 Vitamin E Oil

Vitamin E contains natural antioxidants which extend the life of your products. Gamma tocopherol, a component of Vitamin E, is a great antioxidant for protecting cosmetic formulations. T-50 has a larger amount of gamma tocopherols than other forms of Vitamin E oil.While the alpha tocopherol in the 250, 1000, and 1400IU/g oils is wonderful as an in vitro antioxidant, studies show that the gamma tocopherol in the Vitamin E T-50 oil is a better antioxidant for oils/lipids in cosmetic formulations. T-50 has a higher content of gamma tocopherols and can be used at a rate of .04% or 400ppm to adequately protect your oils.
INCI Nomenclature: Tocopherols

Rosemary Oil Extract
Rosemary oil extract (ROE) also acts as a natural antioxidant. ROE can impart its own aroma into your products, so keep that in mind when using it. As a preservative, add .15 to .5 % of our undiluted Rosemary oil extract to your products.

Nature with Love's Rosemary oil extract is a 100% pure extract. It has not been diluted in a vegetable oil.

INCI Nomenclature: Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract

Anti-Microbials

An anti-microbial is an ingredient or substance that helps to destroy unwanted micro-organisms such as bacteria. In the context of handmade skin care products, an anti-microbial helps preserve a product by keeping the product free of these unwanted micro-organisms.

Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) is a citrus seed based anti-microbial used as a preservative in skin care products. GSE is made with the extracts of citrus seeds and pulp. It is blended with vegetable glycerin to make it non-irritating to the skin and mucous membranes when used in formulations. GSE is even safe enough to use as a disinfectant for drinking water when necessary.

Nature with Love's Grapefruit Seed Extract is professional strength. It is 60% GSE in 40% vegetable glycerin. It is not the usual 33% found elsewhere. Please be sure to take that into consideration when using a recipe that simply calls for "GSE". GSE has a shelf life of 7-9 years. It is said to be anti-microbial, anti-septic, anti-bacterial, astringent and does also have some antioxidant activity.

Use GSE at .5 to 1% to preserve most formulations, or use at 2% to create anti-bacterial creams, salves, rinses and soaps. Please note that adding 2% GSE to your products does not mean that you can market or label the product as an "anti-bacterial" product.

Wear gloves while handling Grapefruit Seed Extract. GSE can be irritating to the skin in its undiluted form.

INCI Nomenclature: Grapefruit (Citrus Grandis) Extract (and) Glycerin


Germaben II

Germaben II is a convenient, ready-to-use broad spectrum anti-microbial preservative for personal care products such as shampoos, conditioners, lotions, creams, body sprays and other formulations. It is highly effective against gram positive and gram negative bacteria, yeasts and molds and does not need any additional preservatives. It is a clear, viscous liquid with mild odor. It is soluble in both oil/water emulsions and aqueous formulations up to a level of 1.0%. At 1%, Germaben II provides 0.30% Germall II, 0.11% methylparaben, 0.03% propylparaben, and 0.56% propylene glycol. Germaben II should be added slowly to your product under gentle agitation before the addition of fragrance oil.

Recommended usage rates are provided only as guidelines for proper preservation. All new formulations should be challenge tested to ensure preservative efficacy.

INCI Nomenclature: Propylene Glycol (and) Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Methylparaben (and) Propylparaben

Germaben II-E, Germaben II-E was developed to protect formulations that contain ingredients that inactivate parabens. It is a liquid preservative system that contains 20% Germall II, 10% methylparaben, 10% propylparaben, and 60% propylene glycol. It is used to preserve water-in-oil and oil-in-water emulsions but should not be used in aqueous formulations. It is readily soluble at 1.0% and should be added to the emulsified product under gentle agitation before the addition of fragrance. Germaben II-E is a complete preservative effective against gram positive and gram negative bacteria, yeasts and molds. It is compatible with almost all cosmetic ingredients including surfactants and proteins.

Recommended usage rates are provided only as a guideline for proper preservation. All new formulations should be challenge tested to ensure preservative efficacy.

INCI Nomenclature: Propylene Glycol (and) Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Methylparaben (and) Propylparaben

Liquid Germall Plus

Liquid Germall Plus is a broad spectrum, water soluble preservative for oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions and water soluble formulations. It is highly effective against gram positive and gram negative bacteria, yeasts, molds and commonly found organisms. It is compatible with most cosmetic ingredients and has no known inactivators. Liquid Germall Plus is effective at low concentrations of 0.1 - 0.5% (the higher % should be used in conjunction with high protein and complex formulations). It remains active through a pH range of 3-8. It should be added during the water phase or to the emulsified portion of the formulation at a temperpature of 120F or less. Liquid Germall Plus has a safe toxicology profile and has been evaluated as safe for both rinse-off and leave-on formulations. It is a good choice preservative for shampoos, conditioners, lotions, creams, body washes, body sprays and other such formulas.

Recommended usage levels are meant only as a guide for proper preservation of your product. All new formulations should be challenge tested to ensure that your preservative is working properly.

INCI Nomenclature: Propylene Glycol (and) Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

LiquaPar Oil

LiquaPar Oil is a clear, liquid blend of isopropyl, isobutyl and n-butyl esters of para hydroxybenzoic acid. It is a very stable and effective preservative against gram positive and gram negative bacteria, yeast and mold. LiquaPar Oil is readily incorporated into various types of formulations, including anhydrous products, without heating. It is a good choice for salt scrubs and bath oils where no water is present but may be inadvertently introduced to the container during regular use. The recommended usage rate is 0.3 - 0.6% however, in complex formulations, 0.1% Germall II may be required for adequate preservation.

Recommended usage rates are meant as guidelines only. All new formulations should be challenge tested to ensure proper preservation.

INCI Nomenclature: Isopropylparaben (and) Isobutylparaben (and) Butylparaben

To order any of Nature with Love's perservatives, please visit their website at http://www.fromnaturewithlove.com/soap/Preservatives.asp. For all other Nature with Love's products, please go to http://www.fromnaturewithlove.com/.

Source: http://www.fromnaturewithlove.com/library/preservatives.asp

Liquapar Optima (Preservative)

INCI: Phenoxyethanol (and) Methylparaben (and) Isopropylparaben (and) Isobutylparaben (and) Butylparaben.

In aqueous systems, a co-solvent or surfactant may be needed to help solubilize the preservative. Can be added pre or post emulsification at or below 80°C.

pH restrictions – 3.0-7.5
Usage levels - between 0.5% - 1.0%.

May be required in higher levels in formulas with high levels of non-ionics and proteins as these compounds are known to interfere with parabens. Is a complete preservative in that it covers microbial, fungus, and yeast.

Use levels - .5-1.0%

Source: http://www.craftserver.com/forums/showthread.php?p=199218

Phenoxyethanol (Preservative)

Product Name: Phenoxyethanol

Green Code: 2 Manufactured in USA

INCI Phenoxyethanol
CAS Number(s) 122-99-6 EINECS:204-589-7
Usage Rate:
approved to a maximum concentration of 1%
Appearance Colorless liquid.
Odour Characteristic
pH 7B
oiling point approx. 245 °C at 1013 hPa
Melting point approx. 13 °C
Flashpoint approx. 120 °C
Specific Gravity approx. 1,11 g/ml at 20 °C
Solubility in water in water: approx. 24 g/l at 20 °CAssay 95%
MinWater 0.1%
MaxPhenol 5 ppm
MaxEthylene Oxide 1 ppm
MaxChemistry: Phenoxyethanol is the product of the reaction of 1mole of ethylene oxide and 1mole of phenol.

Description:

Paraben and Formaldehyde free Cosmetic Preservative with an excellent low toxicity profile, and non-sensitizing, an aromatic ether sometimes referred to as Rose Ether. It is a good general bactericide (most active against gram negative bacteria) but a weak fungicide and is generally used in combination with other preservatives. We recommend combining it with Potassium Sorbate to a more efficient coverage.

Phenoxyethanol can be inactivated by highly ethoxylated compounds. In surfactant preparations the water needs to be saturated with it (add to water and mix well before adding other ingredients).

There are no pH restrictions in formulating with phenxoyethanol and, it is not inactivated by any ingredients or raw materials used in the personal care industry. It is easily added directly to a formulation either during pre- or post-emulsification at or below 80°C (176°F).

Even though phenoxyethanol is found in products and listed as a natural preservative for the most part it is synthetic.

Hazard Identification Non Hazardous

Extinguishing Media Dry chemical, CO2, foam.
Risks Arising from Combustion Noxious Fumes.
Protective Equipment Self contained breathing apparatus.
Conditions to avoid Extreme heat.
Materials to avoid Strong oxidizersHazardous decomposition products Stable under normal conditions.

Blogger note: If you would like more information about this perservative, check out this link http://www.truthinaging.com/2008/06/fda-warning-on-phenoxyethanol.html. This article also includes the safety of this particular perservative.

Source: http://www.diycosmetics.com/products/Phenoxyethanol-78-26.html

Liquid Germball (Perservatives)

If you are interested in a perservative Liquid Germball, I found a link from Lotion Crafters that gives a detailed profile:

http://lotioncrafter.com/reference/tech_data_liquid_germall_plus.pdf

Here are some links where you can purchase this preservative to add to your lotion recipes:

http://www.lotioncrafter.com/store/Liquid-Germall-Plus-pr-16169.html

http://theherbarie.com/Germall-Plus-Liquid-pr-139.html

http://southernsoapers.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=423

Germall® Plus (Powder)

A patented combination of 99% Diazolidinyl Urea (DU) and 1% Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate (IPBC). Germall Plus is a highly effective, broad spectrum, non-paraben preservative for oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions and water soluble formulations. It has no known chemical inactivators and is compatible with virtually all cosmetic ingredients, including proteins and surfactants. Germall Plus is a white, fine, free-flowing hygroscopic powder. Not recommended for products intended to be aerosolized. Shipped with a dessicant packet to maintain product integrity. Recommended Use Levels: 0.05% - 0.2% Appearance: Powder INCI: Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate.

If you are interested in using this ingredient to preserve your lotions, Lotion Crafters carries it. And here is a link to this particular ingredient- http://www.lotioncrafter.com/store/Germall-Plus-Powder-pr-16168.html.

There are other online suppliers that sells this particular preservative. Southern Soapers carries it and here is a link to their products - http://southernsoapers.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=21&products_id=427.

You may want to compare information with Lotion Crafters to see which perservative would be best for you.

Cosmetic Definitions/Preservatives & More

Germaben II - is a liquid preservative system with the following composition:

Diazolidinyl urea - 30%

Methylparaben - 11%

Propylparaben - 3%

Propylene Glycol - 56%

Germaben II is a clear viscous liquid with a characteristic mild odor. It is readily soluble at a level of 1.0% in both aqueous solutions and oil/water emulsions. Germaben II is a convenient, ready to-use complete antimicrobial preservative system with a broad spectrum of activity. The solubilized combination of Germall II with methylparaben and propylparaben is effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and against yeast and mold. Germaben II can be used without additional co-preservatives and is compatible with essentially all cosmetic ingredients, including surfactants and proteins.

Germall Plus - One of the newer preservatives, Germall Plus Liquid is water soluble and works wonderfully with virtually all Oil and Water emulsions. This preservative is highly effective in inhibiting the growth of bacteria, yeasts, fungus and molds even at very low concentrations, making it extremely cost effective. Usual recommended use level: 0.1%-0.5% of total formulation weight. Add to finished formulation at temps of 122F and lower. INCI : Propylene Glycol & Diazolidinyl Urea & Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate.

Glycolic Acid - This is the most commonly used form of alpha hydroxy acid. It can be used in both low and high strength. Lower strength glycolic acids are used in many over-the-counter skin care products, whereas office lunchtime peels can be a stronger version applied at either a dermatologist ‘s or a plastic surgeon’s office. Some salons are also applying a stronger version of glycolic acid. Glycolic acid application can be an important adjunct in maintaining a youthful skin care regimen.

Hyaluronic Acid - This is a natural protein found in multiple body secretions. It is used as a cosmetic topically. It also helps reduce swelling because it absorbs moisture.

Imidazolidinyl Urea - Imidazolidinyl urea a preservative in aqueous solutions decompose to formaldehyde and some unidentified products. The release of formaldehyde from imidazolidinyl urea is dependent on temperature, pH and storage period of the solution.

Kojic Acid - This is a form of bleaching agent which is rather effective at reducing pigmentation irregularities. Please refer to hydroquinone for discussion of pigmentation agents.

LiquaPar PE - is a 100% active, clear, stable, liquid blend of isopropyl, isobutyl, and n-butyl esters of para hydroxybenzoic acid with phenoxyethanol. This combination of parabens and phenoxyethanol is effective against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, yeast, and mold providing broad spectrum activity for worldwide formulations. The potentiator effect of phenoxyethanol facilitates use of the LiquaPar Oil technology in nonionic emulsion systems where paraben efficacy might otherwise be compromised. All LiquaPar PE components are approved for worldwide use thus allowing sale of the same finished formulation in Japan, Europe, Australia and the United States. LiquaPar PE is an active blend of parabens and phenoxyethanol useful in a wide range of cosmetic formulations including anhydrous systems. The potentiating effect of phenoxyethanol combined with the highly effective paraben blend provides an effective preservative system for even difficult to preserve nonionic emulsions. In most systems LiquaPar PE should be incorporated at a concentration of 1.0% by weight of the finished formulation.

Magnesium Sulfate USP - (Epsom Salts) A soaking aid for minor sprains, muscle aches and bruises. A water softener and bath additive.

Methyl Paraben - (Methyl p-Hydroxybenzoate) Methyl p-Hydroxybenzoate comes from the combination of denatured wood alcohol and benzoic acid. Benzoic acid occurs naturally in cherry bark, raspberries, tea, anise and cassia bark. It is neutral, nontoxic, safe to use, nonirritating, nonsensitizing and nonpoisonous. It is one of the most commonly used preservative in cosmetics since it is stable at most pH levels, is broad spectrum and water soluble.

Optiphen - is a unique liquid preservative formulation that consists of phenoxyethanol and an emollient base. The primary active ingredient is 2-phenoxyethanol, which is an aromatic ether alcohol often utilized for preservation of personal care products. The secondary ingredient, caprylyl glycol, also known as 1,2-octanediol, functions as the emollient base. Optiphen is a clear liquid-preservative that can be easily added directly to the formulation during pre- or post-emulsification at or below 80°C. There are no pH restrictions in formulating with Optiphen. Optiphen is compatible with most ingredients used in the personal care industry.

Polysorbate 20 - (Emulsifier) Widely used emulsifier, a vicious oily liquid derived from lauric acid. Lauric acid is a common constituent of coconut oil. Polysorbate 20 is a nonionic surfactant, meaning it has no electrical charge. A surfactant is a wetting (surface active) agent that lowers the water surface tension permitting it to penetrate more easily.

Propylene Glycol - Often derived from lactic acid, glucose, or seaweed. The most common moisture carrying ingredient other than water used in cosmetics because it moisturizes better than glycerin. Is used as a wetting agent and surfactant which gives a product better absorption and promotes spreading of the product on the skin. Originally derived from brown algae and since mixed with a few other goodies, the chemical has been used for almost a century in one form or another. Propylene Glycol is an emollient. Not to be confused with Ethyl Glycol which is used in anti-freeze and other chemical based products. It can penetrate the outermost layer of the skin cells and carry other beneficial products deeper into the epidermis. According to the AMA's committee on Cutaneous Health emollients do help make the skin feel softer and smoother, reduce roughness, cracking and irritation. And may possibly retard the fine wrinkles of aging.

Sodium Cocoate Sodium salts compounded with coconut fatty oils.

Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate is a broad spectrum antimicrobial that is active against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, yeast and mold. It is used at extremely low concentrations between .1% to 1% at the most. It is active at all alkaline pH levels as well as acidic conditions. It acts for both preservation and neutralization, which means it can be used in place of TEA (triethanolamine) or sodium hydroxide. It is synergistic with other preservatives. There are no ingredients used in cosmetics that render sodium hydroxymethylglycinate non-effective. Sodium hydroxymethylgycinate is derived from glycine, which is a naturally occurring amino acid. Traditionally glycine was used a texturizer in cosmetics. It is an amino acid classified as nonessential. Glycine is made up of sweet-tasting crystals, it is used as a dietary supplement and as a gastric antacid. Amino Acids are widely used in cosmetics because they help penetrate the skin. This preservative can react with certain essential oils, specifically citrus and mint oriented. The reaction can cause your product base to change colors, but does not effect the effacacy of the preservative. Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate in aqueous solution decomposes to sodium glycinate and formaldehyde. Glycine is an essential amino acid, and does not appear to be harmful. So, the regulation of sodium hydroxymethylglycinate as total formaldehyde should not give any additional safety problem to consumers, as long as the maximum authorized concentration of this compound is maintained. (SCCNFP/587/02)

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) is the sodium salt of sulfated ethoxylated lauryl alcohol. Which means salt of sulfuric acid has been added to the crystalline compound produced from coconut in order to control the acid-alkali balance; and ethyl and oxygen are mixed and added to make it more soluble in water. There has been a huge scare centered on the use of SLS and SLES, which stems from the incorrect reporting by Neways Web sites of a study done at the Medical College of Georgia by Dr. Keith Green. He states that he was not only misquoted but also the majority of the misinformation is completely false. Also, the American Cancer Society has stated that SLS and SLES do not cause cancer. They have searched all the recognized medical journals and have found no articles linking cancer and SLS or SLES. Please see the CIR Expert Panels findings on SLS here. CIR Link

Sodium Stearate - A compound of 92.82% stearic acid with sodium salts. Stearic acid is a fatty acid that occurs naturally in butter acids, tallow and oils.

Sorbitol - This is a humectant and gives a smooth feel to the skin. Currently it is used instead of glycerin in many ointments.

Soyamidopropyl Betaine - A soybean oil, alcohol and betaine compound. Betaine is complicated organic detergents that occur naturally in sugar beets and other vegetables. It is used as an emulsifier, thickener, foam boaster and conditioner. Soybean is extracted from the seeds of soybeans. Alcohol is manufactured by the fermentation of starch, sugar or any other carbohydrate. It is used to help dissolve or dispense one or more substances.

SPF - Sun protection factor is the acronym used to depict how much sun protection is offered by a sunscreen. Specifically a sun block only measures the amount of sun protection that can be caused from ultraviolet B rays and not ultraviolet A rays. Both UVA and UVB rays can lead to photo aging and skin cancers. Typically an SPF of 15 or 30 is recommended. The use of sun blocking agents with the addition of titanium or zinc oxide is extremely helpful in reducing all exposure to the sun’s rays.

Stearalkonium Chloride - This quartenary ammonium compound adds shine to hair and improves the ability to comb through hair. A complex cationic conditioning ingredient which demonstrates a natural affinity for fibrous protein and forms a protective coating on the cuticle of the hair. Retards hair tangling and enhances wet comb-out properties and overall manageability.

Stearic Acid (Palm Stearic) - A vegetable derivative used to stiffen and stabilize lotions and creams. Occurs naturally in vegetable fats. A white, waxy, natural fatty acid.

Sunscreens - The active ingredients for most sunscreens are one of the following: PABA and PABA esters, Benzophenones, Cinnamates, Salicylates, and Anthranilate. These products are useful in the prevention of sunburns as well as in reducing the long term damage that sun exposure can cause with its concomitant skin cancer and wrinkle producing properties. Most sunscreens do an excellent job of absorbing UVB rays, but do not do as good a job with UVA rays. Many of the newer sunscreens will screen out both UVA and UVB. A combination agent which contains zinc oxide is the best. Sunscreens come with a number called the sun protection factor, or SPF. Recommendations in the 15 to 30 range are ideal. If a sunscreen has a label of a 15 SPF, then with its use over a 15-hour period, the skin will have absorbed only 1 hour’s worth of ultraviolet light. Other agents which block the sun include zinc oxide, titanium oxide, magnesium silicate, kalin, ferric oxide, red petrolatum, and magnesium oxide. Sunscreen is particularly important in children, as 85% of all sun exposure occurs before the age of 18.

Source: http://www.asianwhiteskin.com/otheringredients.html