Benzyl Alcohol (Preservative) vs Sodium Dehydroacetate: which is worse?

What is Benzyl Alcohol (Preservative)?

Benzyl alcohol is an aromatic alcohol used in cosmetics both as a preservative (antimicrobial) and as a solvent and fragrance ingredient. As a preservative it is commonly used in combination with sodium dehydroacetate (forming the 'Geogard' system) in natural-certified products.

What is Sodium Dehydroacetate?

Sodium dehydroacetate is the sodium salt of dehydroacetic acid, a broad-spectrum preservative effective against yeasts, molds, and some bacteria. It is frequently used in combination with benzyl alcohol as part of a natural-positioned preservative system.

Documented risks

Benzyl Alcohol (Preservative): Benzyl alcohol is permitted in EU cosmetics as a preservative at ≤1% and as a fragrance ingredient (it is also one of the 26 EU fragrance allergens requiring labeling). The CIR has confirmed safety. It can cause allergic contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals. In some countries (France, EU), its use in cosmetics for infants under 3 years is advised against due to potential neurotoxicity concerns in neonates. At cosmetic concentrations for adults, it is well-tolerated and not carcinogenic.

Sodium Dehydroacetate: Sodium dehydroacetate is permitted in the EU at ≤0.6% (as acid) under Annex V of Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. The CIR and SCCS have reviewed it and confirmed safety at permitted concentrations. Potential for skin sensitization is low. No carcinogenic or endocrine effects are documented at cosmetic use levels.