Herbal-Active® - natural preservation for cosmetics
We get a huge number of inquiries from cosmetic manufacturers looking to replace parabens, benzoates, GSE and other chemical or non-natural preservatives with natural and even organic shelf life extenders.
Luckily, Herbal-Active® can do just this although there is a method of use which is (just) a little more complex than throwing in a chemical and stirring the pot.
We recommend taking the view that Herbal-Active® is a sanitizer and so it gets added to the ingredients with the highest microbial loads first at a concentration of 1 to 2% of the final product weight. This exposes the actives, thickeners, acidifiers, stabilizers and other ingredients to a high level of Herbal-Active® in just a small amount of purified water. More water is added and if an emulsion is being made as in creams and lotions, then the oil can be introduced and shear-blended to mix the different liquid phases.
Some consideration needs to account if high temperature blending is used as the volatile components in Herbal-Active® can be affected by heat. In this case, the natural antimicrobial is best added on cooling along with or mixed into any fragrances used.
100% oil based products can utilize our Herbal-Active® in oil (olive oil, canola or whatever is your choice). The oil based product, like our water soluble formulation, Herbal-Active® at 1% does have a fragrance but this is appealing or can be easily masked.
Additionally, Organic Food Chain Pty Ltd has an organic system for the approved use of Herbal-Active® in organic products.
If you want more information about anything in this article or for more details on using Herbal-Active® in cosmetics, please email us.
Hi Vic I am pleased to find you here I am interested in your preservative Herbal Active I will most likely need it in bulk as my product line has grown quickly. I want the safest makeup out there. Please advise also do you know where I could purchase food grade dyes for lip products.
Thank You,
Aimee
Hi Aimee,
Herbal-Active is being used by more and more cosmetic companies every month. I’d love it if you were one of those.
Cheers,
Vic
Hi Aimee,
Herbal-Active is being used in cosmetics and skin care products in numerous countries. Are you still looking for a solution with a natural product?
Cheers,
Vic