Cosmetic formulators switch to alternative preservation systems over parabens: Study

Consumer demands for natural and organic cosmetics along with the new trend of formulators offering parabens free products are said to be the key driving factors for the use of alternative preservative systems in cosmetics manufacturing, according to Technical Insights: Paraben-Free Preservative Systems for Cosmetics report by Organic Monitor.

Parabens used in personal care products, though not scientifically proven, mimic oestrogen and are associated with breast cancer, and to avoid this possible link and also for safety concerns, increased number of formulators are working to offer cosmetic products free of parabens.

French and Danish governments also are mulling banning parabens in cosmetics products, the report added.

New materials and technologies are gaining acceptance over conventional preservatives such as parabens and phenoxyethanol.

Organic Monitor spokesperson Judi Beerling said many firms use preservative systems, which comprise multi-functional natural ingredients that do not require registration with respective authorities.

Hurdle technology, a self preservation technique that originates from the food industry, works to block the growth of micro-organisms in cosmetic formulations, the report stated.

Utilising materials that decrease pH of the formulation or adding emollients with membrane disrupting properties or use of chelating agents or a glycol alternative in cosmetic formulations helps boost natural preservations systems, the report added.

The study also found that these new expensive alternative systems, whose supply could be an issue on large-scale, are not as cost-effective as parabens and; also could lead to stability and safety issues as they are associated with natural minerals.

Formulators also are realising the need of custom packaging based on product type, formulation and packaging with a need to reduce contamination risks.