Safe, Multifunctional Paraben Free Preservative Solutions are in Demand

The use of preservatives in cosmetic formulations has been a topic of concern in recent years due to the potential health risks associated with their use. While there are various preservatives that are approved for use in cosmetics, many of them have been found to have toxic effects on consumers.

A cosmetic functional ingredient is added to the cosmetic formulation for a well-defined function, but it can also contribute to another effect (such as antimicrobial activity), thus acting as a multifunctional ingredient. Lactic acid is one such multifunctional ingredient which can be used as an antimicrobial preservative in cosmetic formulations in the form of a standalone preservative or as a blend along with other ingredients to give broad spectrum preservation.

Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is naturally found in dairy products. It has been used for centuries by people all over the world to soften and beautify the skin, including sensitive skin. It can also increase the NMF (Natural moisturizing factor) that is found in the skin.  In addition to its skin benefits, lactic acid also exhibits antimicrobial properties that make it a powerful bio preservative in naturally fermented products.

Studies have shown that lactic acid is effective in reducing or preventing the growth of microorganisms, including both gram positive and gram-negative bacteria. It causes prominent permeabilization in these bacteria, which is stronger than that of other commonly used antimicrobial agents such as EDTA or HCl. The effect of lactic acid on the outer membrane permeability of gram positive and gram-negative bacteria is well documented in literature.

Lactic acid is a powerful exfoliant that can remove dead skin cells, lighten dark spots, and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on all skin types. Its skin cell renewal performance is higher than that of citric acid and malic acid, and it is comparable to that of glycolic acid. However, the L (+) form of lactic acid is less irritating compared to glycolic acid.

Using multifunctional ingredients like lactic acid and lactates in personal care products is beneficial because they exhibit anti-bacterial and bacteriostatic properties, respectively, while being used at typical levels in cosmetics. This is particularly useful in formulations where the possibilities for antimicrobial agents are limited, and legal requirements are strict.

The market for innovative and unique preservation techniques is currently on the rise, and Salicylates has developed three paraben-free and formaldehyde-free preservative blends using lactic acid. These broad-spectrum blends provide antimicrobial efficacy to the product and have multifunctional benefits such as working as a BHA and AHA along with moisturizing the skin.

Product Name	Saliguard LAU
INCI Name	Lactic acid, Undecylenic Acid, Triethylene Glycol
Use Level	0.5% to 1.3%
pH	Up to 6.5
Advantanges	Synergistic activity of Lactic Acid and Undecylenic Acid shows a good effect on microorganisms including pathogens

Product Name	Saliguard LAS
INCI Name	Lactic acid, Salicylic acid, Triethylene glycol, 1,3 Propanediol
Use Level	0.5% to 2%
pH	Up to 6
Advantanges	Combinations of AHA and BHA are known to give benefits like anti aging, powerful exfoliation and acne control

Product Name	Saliguard LAG
INCI Name	Lactic acid, Gluconolactone, 1,2- Hexanediol , Water
Use Level	0.5% to 2%
pH	Up to 6
Advantages	Gluconolactone works as a PHA which provides additional moisture to the skin .This blend provides  improves the skin structure and also has safe ingredients to use for baby care formulations.

The usage level of the above three blends were determined based on the MIC test and the formulations made using these blends complies for challenge test, as per United States Pharmacopoeia, General Chapter <51>.

Applications:

• Hair Care : Shampoos, conditioners and anti-dandruff products
• Skin Care : Creams, Lotions, liquid soaps, Moisturizers and Cold creams
• Sun Products : Sunscreen lotions, Sprays and creams
• Wipes  : Baby wipes and facial wipes

In conclusion, natural occurrence, skin benefits, and antimicrobial properties of lactic acid make it a popular choice for cosmetic formulators. With the increasing demand for innovative preservation techniques, Salicylates' preservative blends offer a unique solution for personal care product formulations.