Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that stops bacteria, fungi, and other microbes from growing in your skincare products. It's one of the most common ones you'll find in formulas, especially in lighter textures like serums and toners where water is the main ingredient.
It works on its own or alongside other preservatives to keep your product stable and safe to use over time. You'll typically see it listed somewhere in the middle or toward the end of an ingredient list, since preservatives are used in small amounts.
If you have very sensitive skin, it's worth noting that some people find it irritating, though reactions are uncommon. It's been used in cosmetics for decades and is approved for use in most countries.
Products with Phenoxyethanol
31 active products. Cards link to a dupe page where one exists.
CeraVe
Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Cleanser · 354.9 ml
The Ordinary
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Serum · 30 ml · $6.00
Prices checked today
CeraVe
Daily Moisturizing Lotion
Moisturizer · 354.9 ml
EltaMD
UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46
Sunscreen · 48 g · $45.00
Prices checked today
CeraVe
PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
Moisturizer · 59.2 ml
Cosrx
Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Toner · 100 ml · $25.00
Prices checked today
CeraVe
Eye Repair Cream
Eye cream · 14.8 ml
Paula's Choice
10% Niacinamide Booster
Serum · 19.8 ml · $53.00
Prices checked today
CeraVe
Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 Face Lotion
Sunscreen · 70.9 g
CeraVe
Skin Renewing Vitamin C Serum
Serum · 29.6 ml
e.l.f.
Holy Hydration! Face Cream
Moisturizer · 50 g · $13.00
Prices checked today
Naturium
Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%
Serum · 30 ml · $17.00
Prices checked today
The Inkey List
Caffeine Eye Cream
Eye cream · 15 ml · $14.00
Prices checked today
Paula's Choice
CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment
Serum · 29.6 ml · $48.75
Prices checked today
Naturium
BHA Liquid Exfoliant 2%
Toner · 120 ml · $19.00
Prices checked today
Eucerin
Advanced Repair Cream
Moisturizer · 453.6 g
The Ordinary
Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution
Toner · 30 ml · $7.50
Prices checked today
Geek & Gorgeous
C-Glow
Serum · 30 ml
Aveeno
Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Face Moisturizer, For Sensitive Skin, 1.7 Oz
Moisturizer · 48.2 g
Neutrogena
Neutrogena® Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel with Signature Fragrance 1.7 Oz
Moisturizer · 48.2 g
Neutrogena
Neutrogena® Hydro Boost Face Wash, Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Cleansing Gel, 16 Fl. Oz
This is general information about ingredients and prices, not medical advice. Patch test new products and talk to a dermatologist about skin conditions.
