What Is Chlorphenesin？

Chlorphenesin is a versatile cosmetic ingredient commonly used in skincare and personal care formulations. Acting both as a preservative and a mild muscle relaxant derivative, it helps maintain product freshness, enhance formulation stability, and promote a smoother, more comfortable skin feel. In the cosmetics industry, chlorphenesin is highly valued for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, which effectively protect products from microbial contamination and extend their shelf life.

What Is Chlorphenesin?

Chemically known as 3-(4-chlorophenoxy)-1,2-propanediol, chlorphenesin is a synthetic cosmetic ingredient derived from glycerol and chlorophenol. Originally developed as a muscle relaxant in pharmaceutical applications, chlorphenesin has gained wide use in skincare and personal care formulations due to its effective preservative properties, broad antimicrobial activity, and excellent safety profile. Today, it is commonly added to creams, lotions, and serums to enhance product stability, prevent microbial contamination, and maintain formula freshness over time.

Functions and Benefits of Chlorphenesin

• Preservative Support – Chlorphenesin inhibits bacterial and fungal growth, protecting formulations from contamination and ensuring long-term product safety and shelf stability.
• Formulation Stabilizer – It helps maintain the consistency, viscosity, and overall integrity of emulsions and creams.
• Formulation Stabilizer – It helps maintain the consistency, viscosity, and overall integrity of emulsions and creams.
• Synergistic Preservative System – Often combined with phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, or parabens, chlorphenesin enhances broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy in personal care formulations.

Safety Profile

According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) and European Commission, chlorphenesin is considered safe for cosmetic use when formulated under recommended concentrations. It does not accumulate in the body and shows minimal irritation potential.
However, like any preservative, excessive concentrations may cause mild sensitivity in extremely reactive skin types, which is why professional formulation is key.

Regulatory Status:

• ✅ EU Cosmetics Regulation (Annex V) – Permitted up to 0.3%.
• ✅ U.S. FDA – Approved for over-the-counter (OTC) topical use.
• ✅ Japan & China – Listed as a safe cosmetic ingredient under standard usage limits.

Applications in the Cosmetic Industry

Chlorphenesin is suitable for a wide range of cosmetic and personal care products:

• Facial creams and moisturizers
• Anti-aging serums
• Makeup foundations
• Hair conditioners
• Sunscreens

Because of its broad-spectrum antimicrobial action and compatibility with different formulation types, chlorphenesin has become a reliable ingredient for brands seeking safe, stable, and efficient preservation systems.

Trusted Source for High-Quality Chlorphenesin

For formulators and cosmetic manufacturers looking for reliable raw materials, Zleygroup offers high-purity Chlorphenesin that meets international quality and safety standards. Our product delivers excellent preservation performance and blends easily into a wide range of skincare and personal care formulations.

Zleygroup provides full technical and regulatory support, including COA, MSDS, and TDS documentation, along with global logistics service to ensure smooth delivery and compliance. With a strong commitment to quality, consistency, and innovation, we help brands create safe, stable, and effective cosmetic products.