Polyhexamethylene Biguanide (PHMB), also known as Polyhexamethylene Guanidine or Polyaminopropyl Biguanide in cosmetic applications, is a polymeric biguanide widely used as a highly effective antimicrobial ingredient.
Due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, excellent compatibility with different formulations, and long-lasting protection, PHMB is used in various industries including disinfectants, personal care products, wet wipes, water treatment, healthcare, and industrial antimicrobial applications.
Unlike traditional antimicrobial agents that provide only short-term protection, PHMB can bind to microbial cell membranes and maintain antimicrobial activity over an extended period, making it a valuable solution for modern hygiene and preservation needs.
Polyhexamethylene Biguanide (PHMB) is a cationic polymer containing repeating biguanide groups. Its positive charge allows it to interact with negatively charged microbial cell membranes, causing membrane disruption and microbial death.
Basic Information
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Polyhexamethylene Biguanide |
| INCI Name | Polyaminopropyl Biguanide |
| CAS No. | 32289-58-0; 27083-27-8;132071-71-7 |
| Appearance | Colorless to light yellow liquid / powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Function | Antimicrobial preservative and disinfectant |
PHMB works through multiple antimicrobial mechanisms:
The positively charged PHMB molecules attach to microbial cell surfaces and damage their membrane structure.
After membrane damage, essential intracellular substances leak out, resulting in microbial death.
PHMB can interfere with microbial reproduction and helps provide long-lasting protection.
PHMB is effective against:
PHMB remains effective in a wide pH range and shows good compatibility with many water-based formulations.
Compared with many traditional antimicrobial agents, PHMB provides strong microbial control at relatively low concentrations.
PHMB is widely used in sensitive applications such as:
PHMB is used as an antimicrobial preservative in:
Typical applications:
>>Read more about PHMB in cosmetics
Wet wipes require effective microbial protection because of their high water content.
PHMB helps prevent contamination by bacteria and fungi while maintaining product stability.
Applications include:
>>Read more about PHMB for wet wipes
PHMB is widely used in:
Advantages:
✔ Long-lasting antimicrobial effect
✔ Low odor
✔ Non-VOC characteristics
✔ Good water compatibility
PHMB is used as a non-chlorine antimicrobial technology for:
It provides microbial control without forming typical chlorine-related by-products.
>>Read more about PHMB in water treatment
PHMB is increasingly used in aquaculture applications because of its antimicrobial properties.
Applications include:
Benefits:
>>Read more about PHMB in Aquaculture
PHMB can provide antimicrobial protection for:
>>Read more about PHMB in Textile and Industrial Application
| Feature | PHMB | BKC | MIT/CMIT | Parabens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Broad spectrum | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Medium |
| Mildness | Excellent | Medium | Lower | Good |
| Water compatibility | Excellent | Good | Good | Medium |
| Long-lasting effect | Excellent | Medium | Medium | Medium |
| Suitable for sensitive products | Yes |
PHMB is commonly available in two forms:
Advantages:
Applications:
Advantages:
Applications:
When sourcing PHMB, buyers should evaluate:
A professional PHMB manufacturer should provide:
Supplier should understand:
Important factors:
>>PHMB Buying Guide: Liquid or Powder? Cosmetic Grade or Industrial Use?
Easychem supplies high-quality PHMB solutions for:
Available products:
We provide:
✔ Technical documents
✔ Competitive bulk pricing
✔ Global export support
✔ Flexible packaging options
PHMB can be used in cosmetic applications when formulated according to applicable regulations and concentration limits.
PHMB is often selected as an alternative where formulators need a mild antimicrobial system with good compatibility.
PHMB should be used according to application-specific regulations and responsible handling requirements.
The CAS number of Polyhexamethylene Biguanide is 32289-58-0.
Polyhexamethylene Biguanide (PHMB) is a versatile antimicrobial ingredient with applications across personal care, wet wipes, disinfectants, water treatment, aquaculture, and industrial protection.
With strong antimicrobial performance, formulation flexibility, and growing market demand, PHMB has become an important solution for manufacturers looking for effective microbial protection.
For reliable PHMB supply, technical support, and bulk purchasing, Easychem provides professional PHMB solutions worldwide.
👉 Request samples & quotations now
📧 Email: sales@szeasychem.com
Grow your brand with a safer, stronger, and more modern preservative solution — PHMB.
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Email: sales@szeasychem.com
Contact: Joyce Yu
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Easychem – a manufacturer of Suzhou Easy Chemical is a professional preservative manufacturer and chemical ingredients supplier, offering for wide range of industries to global market.
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Defoamer manufacturer-Invelychem
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