Chlorhexidine Digluconate
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
Preservative used in cosmetics to prevent contamination, particularly in water-based formulas
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Chlorhexidine Digluconate?
Chlorhexidine digluconate is a preservative used in cosmetics to prevent contamination, particularly in water-based formulas. It also helps thwart unwanted odors changes within the formulation.\n\nThe Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed chlorhexidine digluconate safe in concentrations of 0.2% or lower, which is within the typical usage levels suggested by cosmetic suppliers of this ingredient. It has weak activity against fungi and is not compatible in formulas that contain carbomers, gums, and soap ingredients.\n\nChlorhexidine digluconate is a clear, pale yellow liquid in raw material form.\n\nChlorhexidine digluconate is also used in the medical field as a disinfectant, particularly to sanitize pre-surgical sites of skin.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed December 2022, ePublication CosmeticsInfo.org, 2022
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SpecialChem (supplier info), Accessed December 2022, ePublication SpecialChem (supplier info), 2022
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European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, February 2021, pages 77-87 European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2021
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International Journal of Toxicology, 2011, pages 73S-127S International Journal of Toxicology, 2011
From the Clinic
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Chlorhexidine
A broad-spectrum purifying commonly used in oral care and medical antisepsis
Chloroacetamide
A preservative that protects skincare formulations from microbial contamination
Chlorphenesin
Preservative that inhibits contamination in skin care formulas Extends a product’s shelf life
Ciclopirox Olamine
An purifying agent targeting fungal and bacterial overgrowth on skin
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