Chlorphenesin
INCI: Phenoxyethanol
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 14 Aug 2026
Also known as: Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol
Preservative that inhibits contamination in skin care formulas Extends a product’s shelf life
At a glance
EWG Safety Score
What Is Chlorphenesin?
As a skin care ingredient, chlorphenesin is used as a water- and glycerin-soluble preservative to inhibit contamination. Since it’s considered weak against some types of bacteria, it’s always combined with other preservatives, such as phenoxyethanol and caprylyl glycol, to boost stability and increase the product’s shelf life. It is also considered a “cosmetic biocide” to help prevent unwanted odors on skin.
In 2014, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded chlorphenesin was safe for skin (their report surveyed on-market formulas with concentrations up to 0.32% in rinse-off products and 0.3% in leave-on products).
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
Cholesterol in skin barrier function Journal of Lipid Research, 2014
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- CHLORPHENESIN
- INN Name
- chlorophenesin
- EC Number
- 203-192-6
- Function
- Antimicrobial, Preservative
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
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Take the skin quizOther forms of Chlorphenesin
These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. Chlorphenesin is the common form.
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Phenoxyethanol
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