Cosgard 221
Description
Cosgard 221 – Standard in Preservation and Formula Safety
Cosgard 221 is one of the most widely used and appreciated preservatives in natural and organic cosmetics worldwide. Based on a synergistic combination of benzyl alcohol and dehydroacetic acid, this preservation system is approved by certification bodies for bio and natural cosmetics. It is recognized for its broad spectrum of action against bacteria, molds, and yeasts, while also being extremely easy to integrate into any water-containing formula, from luxurious creams to gentle shampoos.
Ingredients: Benzyl Alcohol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Aqua.
Characteristics
- Appearance: Transparent liquid, yellowish in color.
- Scent: Characteristic, may be reminiscent of almond aroma.
- Solubility: Soluble in water, alcohol, and glycols.
- Efficacy: Broad spectrum (Gram+, Gram-, yeasts, and molds).
- Origin: Nature-identical ingredients, accepted in bio/organic cosmetics.
Main Properties
- Broad-Spectrum Protection: Ensures the microbiological integrity of the finished product, preventing degradation caused by accidental contamination. Effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeasts, and molds.
- High Compatibility: Works excellently in various systems: emulsions (creams, lotions), cleansing products (shampoos, shower gels), and aqueous gels. Conserves most preparations containing an aqueous phase.
- Safety Profile: It is considered one of the gentlest synthetic preservatives, being well-tolerated by most skin types if used at the correct dosage.
- No Impact on Texture: Does not alter the viscosity of emulsions and does not influence the transparency of cleansing solutions.
- Eco-Friendly: Biodegradable and sustainable, fitting perfectly within the "Clean Beauty" philosophy.
Usage Recommendations
General recommended dosage: 0.2% - 1.1%.
For optimal preservation in home conditions, a dosage of 0.6% - 0.8% is usually recommended for products with a shelf life of 3 months, or 1% - 1.1% for products requiring longer stability.
Applications
- It is suitable for skin and hair care formulations, rinse-off and leave-on products.
- Face creams and body lotions (O/W and W/O).
- Cleansing products: shower gels, shampoos, liquid soaps.
- Aqueous facial serums and toners.
- Makeup products containing water.
- Baby care products.
Formulation Guide
- Procedure: Usually added in the final phase of the process, after the emulsion has formed and cooled.
- Temperature: Recommended incorporation at temperatures below 45°C.
- pH Range: Stable between 2.0-7.0, in emulsions optimally between 5.0 and 6.0.
- Compatibility: Very good with most ingredients generally used in cosmetic products. It is compatible with a wide range of products, including cationic, nonionic, and anionic formulations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does my product have an almond smell after adding the preservative?
It is a normal characteristic of benzyl alcohol. This scent is usually easily covered by added essential oils or fragrances and does not indicate a spoilage of the product. After applying the preparation to the skin, the scent evaporates.
Can I use Cosgard 221 in lip balms or anhydrous body butters?
It is not necessary. This preservative is intended for products containing water. Products consisting exclusively of oils and butters need an antioxidant (such as Vitamin E) to prevent rancidity, not an antimicrobial preservative.
Is Cosgard 221 100% natural?
Its ingredients are nature-identical, meaning they are found in nature, but the version used in cosmetics is synthesized in the laboratory to ensure purity and the absence of contaminants. For this reason, it is approved by bio certification bodies.
Safety in Use
Profile: Concentrated product. In its pure state, it is irritating to the eyes and skin. It should be handled with care according to the recommended dosages.
Precautions: Keep out of reach of children. Avoid direct contact with eyes and skin in pure state; the use of gloves is recommended during handling. Do not ingest.
Storage: Store in the original packaging, in a cool and dry place, away from direct light. Close the container tightly after each use.
Bibliography and Sources
Technical documentation and information provided by the Manufacturer.
CosIng - European Commission Database for Cosmetic Substances and Ingredients.
International regulations regarding cosmetic ingredients (REACH, COSMOS).
Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 on cosmetic products.
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