Quick answer: Sodium Dehydroacetate carries the heavier risk profile. Polyaminopropyl biguanide is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US; Sodium Dehydroacetate is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Polyaminopropyl biguanide | Sodium Dehydroacetate |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Restricted | Restricted |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | medium | low |
| Banned in | — | — |
| Restricted in | European Union | EU |
| Category | preservative | preservative |
| Where it hides | wipes, sprays, lotion | Various Acure products, Andalou Naturals Moisturizers, Puracy Natural Body Wash |
Polyaminopropyl biguanide (Polyaminopropyl Biguanide) is a preservative (PHMB).
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.
Polyaminopropyl biguanide: A possible carcinogen by inhalation; the EU restricts it.
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.
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