We always determine the perfect blend of antimicrobial raw materials for our customers' cosmetic formulations.
Challenges of conservation
The preservation of a product is subject to various requirements and must always be tailored to the individual case. As a rule, at least two antimicrobial substances are necessary to ensure reliable protection against bacteria, yeasts and moulds. This can be, for example, a combination of Cosphaderm® pAS natural and Cosphaderm® LA-T be.
Each formulation is unique and varies in water content, pH value, ingredients and type of packaging.
In addition to efficacy at the given pH value, possible interactions with other ingredients must also be taken into account.
The water solubility of the antimicrobial substance is particularly important, as germs grow in the aqueous phase.
The type of packaging and the dosage form also play an important role. A cream in an open jar is more likely to be contaminated when dispensed with the finger than when dispensed from a pump dispenser or tube.
trends
In addition to these technical aspects, potential side effects and marketing play a key role. The product must be safe and non-irritating.
Multifunctionals with a strong antimicrobial effect are therefore becoming increasingly popular, as they have far fewer side effects and more positive effects.
Magazines, review sites and blogs constantly monitor antimicrobial raw materials. They usually recommend natural and environmentally friendly extracts that are kind to the skin. Customers also tend to prefer natural ingredients over substances with chemical-sounding names.
regulations
In addition, there are legal requirements: in Europe, the Cosmetics Regulation stipulates that a maximum permissible concentration applies to all preservatives. Some of these substances are even completely banned in certain countries.
The reason for this is the sometimes severe side effects: irritation, hormonal influence and the potentially carcinogenic effect are just some of the problems. In summary, it can be said that there is no such thing as the one perfect preservative.
The individual benefit is always decisive.
For this reason, we analyse the potential of each individual antimicrobial raw material. We examine possible synergy effects in order to produce a user-friendly and highly efficient mixture that protects a formulation against bacteria, yeasts and moulds.
