In today’s beauty market, consumers are increasingly prioritizing natural and safe ingredients. If you’re formulating cosmetics or skincare products, choosing the right natural preservative is essential to ensure product stability and safety without compromising on clean beauty claims.

This guide will help you understand the importance of selecting a natural preservative for skincare and explore some of the best options available, all while navigating regulatory compliance and marketing claims.

1. What is a Natural Preservative?

A natural preservative is an ingredient that helps prevent microbial contamination in personal care products without using synthetic chemicals. These preservatives are typically derived from natural sources, such as plants, and can be certified organic or natural.

The main goal of a natural preservative for cosmetics is to extend the shelf life of the product while ensuring it remains safe for consumers. Some common natural preservatives include plant-based extracts, fermentation-derived ingredients, and nature-identical preservatives.

2. Know Your Product Form and pH

Different cosmetic products require different types of preservatives. Here’s how to choose a preservative based on your formula:

• Oil-based products: Antioxidants like Vitamin E (Tocopherol) are often used.

• Water-based products (lotions, serums): These require broad-spectrum preservatives to protect against both bacteria and fungi.

• Low pH formulations: Sodium Benzoate and Potassium Sorbate work well at a low pH, typically below 5.5.

• High pH products: For high pH, consider preservatives that are more resistant to alkaline conditions.

Matching the right natural preservative to your formula’s pH and base type ensures better stability and efficacy.

3. Top Natural Preservative Products to Consider

When selecting a natural preservative, it’s essential to choose one that fits your formulation needs. Below are some ECOCERT and COSMOS-approved products that are popular in the market:

🌿 INCI: Gluconolactone (and) Sodium Benzoate

• ECOCERT & COSMOS approved

• Ideal for products with a pH of 4-5

• Effective for lotions, creams, and cleansers

• Broad-spectrum protection against bacteria and fungi

• Reference: ECOCERT preservative guidelines

🌿 INCI: Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate

• 100% natural, plant-derived

• Ideal for leave-on products like serums or toners

• Gentle and effective for sensitive skin

• Reference: COSMOS-approved preservatives list

🌿 INCI: Caprylyl Glycol (and) Ethylhexylglycerin

• Natural preservative with antimicrobial and deodorizing properties

• Effective across a wide pH range

• Often used in combination for enhanced performance

🌿 INCI: Potassium Sorbate (and) Sodium Benzoate (in water)

• Water-soluble and suitable for low-pH products

• Commonly used in natural skincare formulations

🌿 INCI: Glyceryl Caprylate (and) Magnolia Officinalis Bark Extract

• Multi-functional preservative and emollient

• Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and ideal for emulsions

These products are designed to provide effective preservation while maintaining the natural integrity of your cosmetic formulations. Suzhou Easy Chemical offers these products along with comprehensive technical support to help you choose the right preservative for your product.

4. Regulatory Compliance and Marketing Claims

It’s critical to ensure your natural preservative system complies with regulations in your target market. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• EU (Cosmetics Regulation EC 1223/2009): All preservatives used in cosmetic formulations must be listed in Annex V. The European Commission’s Cosmetic Ingredients Database (CosIng) provides detailed information on approved preservatives.

• USA (FDA): The FDA does not pre-approve preservatives, but they must be safe under labeled use. For more details, refer to the FDA’s guidelines on cosmetics.

• ECOCERT / COSMOS: For organic and natural certifications, preservatives must meet specific criteria. Consult the COSMOS Standard for a list of approved substances.

• China (NMPA): New cosmetic ingredients must be filed or registered. You can check ingredient status through the NMPA Ingredient Database (site in Chinese).

Marketing claims such as “paraben-free”, “phenoxyethanol-free”, or “ECOCERT certified” can also add value to your brand and improve consumer trust.

5. Stability, Compatibility, and pH Range

It’s essential to test how your natural preservative performs in your actual formulation:

• pH compatibility: Ensure the preservative remains effective within the pH range of your product.

• Heat resistance: Does the preservative withstand high temperatures during processing?

• Solubility: Check that the preservative dissolves properly without affecting the texture or appearance of the final product.

• Impact on aesthetics: Some natural preservatives, especially plant-based ones, may affect color or scent, so it’s important to test this.

Choosing the right natural preservative ensures your product is both stable and aesthetically pleasing.

6. Mildness and Skin Sensitivity

While many natural preservatives for skincare are milder than synthetic ones, they are not all suitable for sensitive skin. Consider the following:

• Ferment-based preservatives tend to be gentle and are often used in sensitive skin formulations.

• Organic acids like sorbic acid and benzoic acid can be irritating if not properly formulated.

It’s important to conduct patch tests or clinical trials to ensure your preservative is suitable for all skin types.

7. Cost and Supply Chain

Price and supply chain reliability are critical factors when selecting a natural preservative. Here’s what to consider:

• Availability and MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity)

• Storage requirements and shelf life

• Reliable suppliers who understand your formulation needs

Choosing a cost-effective and readily available preservative can help you streamline your production process and reduce costs.

✅ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the best natural preservative for skincare products?
A: The best choice depends on your formulation, but EASY-Gluco SB, EASY-Ferment RR, and EASY-CapGly are top-rated options.

Q2: Can I make a preservative-free skincare product?
A: It is challenging and risky. Preservative-free products can only be water-free or sealed under strict conditions to avoid contamination.

Q3: How do I find preservatives approved for organic cosmetics?
A: Refer to the COSMOS-preservative guidelines or the ECOCERT list for approved options.

✅ Ready to Formulate?

At Suzhou Easy Chemical, we offer a range of natural and nature-identical preservatives that meet regulatory standards. Contact us for samples, technical support, or a tailored preservative solution.

📩 Contact us for more information or to place an order.