Antimicrobial
AMMONIUM PHENOLSULFONATE
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
An old-fashioned phenolic antimicrobial with astringent action. Largely superseded by modern preservatives; carries phenol-class irritation concerns.
Ammonium phenolsulfonate is the ammonium salt of phenolsulfonic acid, historically used as a mild antiseptic and deodorant. Phenol-class ingredients, including the related zinc phenolsulfonate, are listed in EU Regulation 1223/2009 Annex III with concentration limits for specific uses (e.g., deodorants at defined max concentrations of the zinc salt). CIR has not recently re-assessed the ammonium form. It has been largely replaced by more tolerable preservatives. Can sensitise and irritate at higher levels.
Function
Skin benefits
- Historical antiseptic and deodorant function
- Astringent in specialty formulations
Known concerns
- Phenol-derived structure — sensitising and potentially irritating
- Largely obsolete in modern cosmetic formulations
- Phenol class raises long-standing safety questions
- EU Annex III restrictions on phenol sulfonate family for certain uses
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related antimicrobials
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.