Preservative 221 (Geogard 221)
Price range: $5.50 through $74.00 USD
INCI: Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Aqua
Solubility: Water-dispersible
Effective pH Range: 2.0 – 6.0
Usage Rate: 0.4 – 1.1%
Preservative 221 is a highly effective, globally accepted broad-spectrum cosmetic preservative designed to protect water-based and emulsified formulations against bacteria, yeast, and mold. This well-established preservation system combines dehydroacetic acid and benzyl alcohol to deliver reliable antimicrobial performance across a wide pH range, making it a trusted choice for professional cosmetic formulators.
Renowned for its formulation flexibility, stability, and ease of use, Preservative 221 performs exceptionally well in both leave-on and rinse-off products, offering strong protection without compromising skin feel, aesthetics, or formulation integrity.
Why Formulators Choose Preservative 221
Why Formulators Choose Preservative 221
Broad-spectrum protection against bacteria, yeast, and fungi
Effective across a wide pH range (2.0–6.0)
Compatible with a wide variety of cosmetic systems
Stable and reliable with low odor impact
Easy to incorporate into water phases or emulsions
Suitable for professional and commercial cosmetic manufacturing
This preservative system has demonstrated excellent performance compared to traditional paraben systems, particularly in low-to-neutral pH formulations.
Formulation Guidance
Formulation Guidance
Recommended Use Level: 0.4–1.1% (optimize via challenge testing)
Addition: May be added during cool-down; recommended below 40°C
pH Sensitivity: Efficacy decreases the closer that pH rises towards 6.0
Compatibility: Works well in emulsions, surfactant systems, and aqueous formulations
⚠️ Final preservation efficacy must always be confirmed through microbial challenge testing, especially when modifying formulations or producing products for commercial sale.
Important Use Notes
Not suitable for use in cold process soap, melt & pour soap, or bath bombs
Not intended for aerosol or spray systems
Eye-safe and lip-safe when used within recommended limits
Store sealed in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight
Applications
Suitable for use in a wide range of cosmetic and personal care products, including:
Creams and lotions
Serums and emulsions
Shampoos and conditioners
Body washes and cleansers
Facial and body care products
Baby care formulations
Makeup and color cosmetics
Regulatory & Guidance
Vegan
Non-GMO
Cruelty-Free (not tested on animals)
Paraben-Free
Formaldehyde-Free
Thiazolinone-Free
China-Compliant
Approved for use in COSMOS & ECOCERT–certifiable finished products
(The ingredient itself is permitted for use within compliant formulations)
Documents
Documents
INCI: Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Water
Common Name(s): Geogard 221
Function: Broad-spectrum preservative system
Solubility: Water-miscible
Effective pH Range: 2.0 – 6.0
Recommended Usage Rate: 0.4 – 1.1%
Physical Form: Clear to pale amber liquid
Origin: USA
Documents
INCI Name: Benzyl Alcohol, Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Sorbic Acid
Use: max <1.0%
Solubility: Soluble* (see Formulation Advice to achieve complete solubility)
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