Preservative ECO
| What is it? |
It is a liquid natural broad-spectrum preservative. It is also called as Preservative Eco, Mikrokill ECT, and Plantaserv M. The novel composition of this antimicrobial blend offers broad spectrum protection in a diverse range of products, against Gram-positive & Gram-negative bacteria, yeast, and molds. It also has a low odor profile making it the ideal choice for fragrance-free and fragrance-sensitive systems. |
| INCI | Benzyl Alcohol (and) Salicylic Acid (and) Glycerin (and) Sorbic Acid |
| Usage rate | 0.6–1% |
| Applications | Anhydrous, Body Butter, Body wash, Conditioner, Cream, Deo/ Anti-Perspirant, Eye creams/gels, Eye shadow, Face Lotion, Face wipes, Facial Cream, Foundation, Feminine hygiene, Hair gel, Hand soap (non anti-bac), Lipstick/gloss, Lotion, Make up remover, Mascara, Oil in Water, Oral care, Powder, Shampoo, Suncare, Toner, Water in Oil. |
| Scent | Almondy/marzipan-y |
| pH | Effective from 3–8.
Preservative ECO will cause the pH of your formulations to drop. |
| Solubility | Said to be water soluble, though some have reported challenges with it in entirely hydrous products. |
| Why do we use it in formulations? | Preservative ECO protects our formulations from microbial spoilage (bacteria, yeast, fungus); we have found it to be an effective and easy-to-use natural preservative option. |
| Do you need it? | You should have at least one broad-spectrum preservative; Preservative ECO is a good choice if you prefer natural preservatives. |
| Refined or unrefined? | Preservative ECO only exists as a refined product. |
| Strengths |
Unlike many natural preservatives, Preservative ECO has a maximum functional pH range of 8 (most natural preservatives require an acidic pH to function well). The manufacturer lists lip products as a possible application. |
| Alternatives & Substitutions | You’ll need another broad-spectrum preservative. Liquid Germall™ Plus is an effective, versatile choice, but it isn’t natural. Natural alternatives include Preservative ECO (Geogard ECT), though it have a lower effective pH range. |
| How to Work with It | Include Preservative ECO in the cool down phase of your formulations, and ensure the final pH of the formulation is the in 3-8 range. |
| Tips, Tricks, and Quirks | Looking for a natural way to add an almondy scent to your formulation? Preserve it with Preservative ECO (Geogard ECT)! |
|
Benefits |
|
Always test formulations. This product is intended for external use only.
