Is Chlorphenesin safe to use during pregnancy?

Chlorphenesin is rated "manual review: limited human data available for topical use during pregnancy. animal studies at high oral doses show some developmental toxicity, but these are not considered relevant to low-concentration topical cosmetic use (max 0.3%). considered low risk at cosmetic concentrations but no formal safety classification exists for topical use in pregnancy." for pregnancy use. No established pregnancy safety category exists for topical chlorphenesin in cosmetics. It is used at a maximum of 0.3% in leave-on products under EU regulations. Systemic absorption through intact skin at these concentrations is expected to be minimal. As a precaution, those who prefer to avoid novel preservatives during pregnancy may wish to seek alternatives, but the risk from cosmetic use is considered very low.

What concentration of Chlorphenesin is effective?

Typical effective concentrations of Chlorphenesin are Up to 0.3% in cosmetic products (EU Annex V, entry 31), typically used at 0.1–0.3% in formulations, often combined with phenoxyethanol.

What skin types is Chlorphenesin suitable for?

Chlorphenesin is suitable for all skin types, oily, acne-prone, fungal acne-prone, sensitive.

The Skin Formulary

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Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams

Formula IngredientPreservative

Chlorphenesin

Q: Can Chlorphenesin cause skin irritation?

Chlorphenesin has a low irritation risk. Generally well tolerated at typical use concentrations. Rare cases of contact allergy and irritant reactions have been reported, particularly in sensitive individuals. The EU Cosmetics Regulation (Annex V, entry 31) restricts chlorphenesin to a maximum concentration of 0.3% in cosmetic products. It is not listed under Annex II (banned) or Annex III (restricted actives).

Q: Does Chlorphenesin increase sun sensitivity?

Chlorphenesin has a no sun sensitivity risk. Chlorphenesin is a preservative with no photosensitising properties. No special sun protection measures are required due to its presence in a formulation.

INCI: Chlorphenesin

Chlorphenesin is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial preservative used in cosmetic formulations to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and yeast, thereby extending product shelf life. It is a glycerol ether (3-(4-chlorophenoxy)-1,2-propanediol) that works by disrupting microbial cell membranes. It is most commonly used in combination with phenoxyethanol, where the two compounds act synergistically to provide more effective preservation than either alone.

What does this do in a formula?

broad-spectrum preservation, antimicrobial protection, antifungal activity, extends product shelf life

Is Chlorphenesin safe? Key considerations

Can Chlorphenesin cause irritation?

Low Risk

Generally well tolerated at typical use concentrations. Rare cases of contact allergy and irritant reactions have been reported, particularly in sensitive individuals. The EU Cosmetics Regulation (Annex V, entry 31) restricts chlorphenesin to a maximum concentration of 0.3% in cosmetic products. It is not listed under Annex II (banned) or Annex III (restricted actives).

Does Chlorphenesin increase sun sensitivity?

No Risk

Chlorphenesin is a preservative with no photosensitising properties. No special sun protection measures are required due to its presence in a formulation.

Is Chlorphenesin safe during pregnancy?

MANUAL REVIEW: Limited human data available for topical use during pregnancy. Animal studies at high oral doses show some developmental toxicity, but these are not considered relevant to low-concentration topical cosmetic use (max 0.3%). Considered low risk at cosmetic concentrations but no formal safety classification exists for topical use in pregnancy.

No established pregnancy safety category exists for topical chlorphenesin in cosmetics. It is used at a maximum of 0.3% in leave-on products under EU regulations. Systemic absorption through intact skin at these concentrations is expected to be minimal. As a precaution, those who prefer to avoid novel preservatives during pregnancy may wish to seek alternatives, but the risk from cosmetic use is considered very low.

How does Chlorphenesin work?

Individuals with known contact allergy to chlorphenesin or glycerol ether compounds should review the considerations above before use.

Which products contain Chlorphenesin?

Shop products that contain Chlorphenesin

Chlorphenesin

What does this do in a formula?

Is Chlorphenesin safe? Key considerations

Can Chlorphenesin cause irritation?

Does Chlorphenesin increase sun sensitivity?

Is Chlorphenesin safe during pregnancy?

How does Chlorphenesin work?

Which products contain Chlorphenesin?

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides)

Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Matrixyl 10% + HA

Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

Argireline Solution 10%

Squalane Cleanser

UV Filters SPF 45 Serum

Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides

Glycolipid Cream Cleanser

Multi-Peptide Eye Serum

Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner

Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

Multi-Peptide + HA Serum

Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan

Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum

GF 15% Solution

Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA

Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion

Sulfur 10% Powder-to-Cream Concentrate

Salicylic Acid 2% Solution

Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution

Soothing & Barrier Support Serum

Natural Moisturizing Factors + Inulin Body Lotion

Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion

Sulphate 4% Cleanser for Body and Hair

Salicylic Acid 2% Masque

Balancing & Clarifying Serum

Multi-Antioxidant Radiance Serum

Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum

Multi-Active Delivery Essence

Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution

Rice Lipids + Ectoin Microemulsion