Geogard 221 Preservative

Recommended Usage Rate: 0.2–1.1%

Geogard® 221 is a broad-spectrum preservative suitable for a wide variety of water-based and emulsion-based cosmetic and personal care formulations, including creams, lotions, facial moisturizers, serums, cleansers, toners, shampoos, conditioners, body washes, liquid soaps and other rinse-off and leave-on products.

For best preservative performance, formulate the finished product within a pH range of 2.0–7.0. Preservative efficacy can be compromised above pH 7, so always check and adjust the final pH of the formulation after all ingredients have been incorporated. Arxada specifically recommends use between pH 2 and 7.

Geogard 221 is supplied as a liquid and is easy to incorporate into most formulations. It is recommended to be added at temperatures below 45°C. Its broad formulation compatibility allows it to be incorporated at various stages of the manufacturing process, although in emulsified products it is commonly added during the cool-down phase.

Geogard 221 is compatible with a wide range of formulation systems; however, certain anionic ingredients, including carbomers and some surfactants, may contribute to discolouration. Where this occurs, formulation adjustments or the use of suitable antioxidants may help minimize the effect.

As with all preservatives, the appropriate usage level will depend on the complete formulation, manufacturing conditions, packaging and intended use of the finished product. Good Manufacturing Practices should always be followed, and preservative efficacy/challenge testing is recommended for newly developed or significantly altered formulations intended for commercial sale.

• INCI: Dehydroacetic Acid (and) Benzyl Alcohol (and) Water
• CAS #: 520-45-6 / 100-51-6 / 7732-18-5
• Preservative Type: Broad-Spectrum Preservative
• Preservative Activity: Effective against bacteria, yeast and mould
• Active Preservative Ingredients: Dehydroacetic Acid and Benzyl Alcohol
• Appearance: Clear, Pale Yellow Liquid
• Solubility: Highly soluble in polar organic solvents
• Recommended Usage Rate: 0.2–1.1%
• Effective pH Range: 2.0–7.0
• Processing: Recommended to be incorporated at temperatures below 45°C; enhanced compatibility allows for addition at various stages of the manufacturing process
• Compatibility: Compatible with a diverse range of cosmetic and personal care formulations. Anionic ingredients, including carbomers and certain surfactants, may cause discolouration.
• Natural Standards: Soil Association approved; permitted for use in COSMOS and ECOCERT final formulations
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Formulation Applications: Suitable for a wide variety of aqueous and emulsion-based cosmetic and personal care formulations, including nonionic, anionic and cationic systems
• Storage: Keep container tightly closed in a well-ventilated area and protect from heat and direct sunlight.
  

COMPOSITIONAL BREAKDOWN

• Benzyl Alcohol: 85–89%
• Dehydroacetic Acid: 7.7–8.3%
• Water: 4%

Safety Data Sheet