Why do we use Phenoxyethanol?

Phenoxyethanol, providing it’s properly formulated and used in very low quantities, is actually a very effective preservative with a toxicological profile that supports its use in cosmetics. While it is true that undiluted or very high concentrations have an irritant potential, that potential does not exist in cosmetics where use very low. Cosmetic ingredients must be and are assessed for use within a broader context – ie the immediate, long-term, and cumulative use must all be considered, and phenoxyethanol has been assessed as safe-as-used in Modere products.