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Preservative

BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE

CAS 63449-41-2 / 68391-01-5 / 68424-85-1 / 85409-22-9 Updated
42

Safety score · 0–100

Moderate

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

About

A potent quaternary-ammonium preservative — very effective antimicrobial but a well-documented skin and eye irritant. EU limits to 0.1% in rinse-off products only; not a good leave-on choice on sensitive skin.

Skin benefits

  • Broad-spectrum bacterial/fungal control

Known concerns

  • Confirmed contact allergen
  • Eye irritation, especially in eye-area products
  • EU Annex V restriction: 0.1% rinse-off only as preservative
  • Can disrupt skin microbiome with prolonged use

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

PC

PubChem

U.S. NIH compound data, GHS hazard codes and toxicity literature.

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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.