2-Phenoxyethanol (CAS 122-99-6) — Floral Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
2-Phenoxyethanol
CAS 122-99-6
What Is 2-Phenoxyethanol?
2-Phenoxyethanol is a synthetic fragrance ingredient commonly used as a preservative and mild fragrance component in cosmetics and personal care products. You’ll find it in perfumes, lotions, and skincare formulations where it serves dual purposes. While not a dominant scent, it contributes subtle floral-rosy undertones and helps stabilize products against microbial growth.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESSWhat Does 2-Phenoxyethanol Smell Like?
2-Phenoxyethanol presents a delicate, slightly sweet floral character reminiscent of rose petals dipped in honey, with a faint medicinal undertone that adds complexity. The scent evolves subtly on skin, starting with a crisp, almost soapy freshness that gradually warms into a soft powdery-woody drydown. Its low volatility makes it more of a background player than a star ingredient, blending seamlessly with other florals while adding mild preservative properties.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
2-Phenoxyethanol is a glycol ether belonging to the aromatic alcohol class, synthesized through the reaction of phenol with ethylene oxide. This colorless liquid exhibits both hydrophilic (through its hydroxyl group) and lipophilic (via its phenyl ring) properties, making it soluble in both water and organic solvents. While primarily valued for its antimicrobial properties in cosmetics, its mild floral odor profile allows dual functionality in fragrance formulations.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 245 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 1.102 g/cm³ |
| Flash Point | 121 °C |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and organic solvents |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetic Preservative | 0.5-1% | Up to 1% | Maximum 1% in EU cosmetics |
| Fragrance Component | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Secondary floral modifier |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use as a preservative booster while leveraging its subtle floral character in base notes.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not restricted by IFRA, but limited to 1% in leave-on products due to EU cosmetic regulations.
EU Allergen Declaration
Not listed as an EU allergen, but requires declaration above 1% concentration.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment confirms safe use at current cosmetic levels with minimal sensitization risk.
Sustainability
As a petrochemical derivative, 2-phenoxyethanol’s environmental impact stems from its synthetic production process. However, its efficacy at low concentrations reduces overall product preservative load. Some manufacturers are exploring bio-based production routes using phenol from lignin sources.
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References
- Cosmetic Ingredient Review (2007). Safety Assessment of Phenoxyethanol. CIR Report
- EU Commission Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 EU Cosmetics Regulation
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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