Geogard® 221
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INCI Name:
Benzyl Alcohol (and) Dehydroacetic Acid
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Chemical Name:
Geogard® 221
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CAS Number:
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Benzyl Alcohol: 100-51-6
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Dehydroacetic Acid: 520-45-6
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Appearance:
Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid
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Chemical Type:
Broad-Spectrum Cosmetic Preservative
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Suitable For:
Face Creams, Lotions, Serums, Shampoos, Conditioners, Face Washes, Body Washes, Hair Masks, Wet Wipes, Baby Care Products, and Cosmetic Formulations
Key Benefits:
- Broad-spectrum protection against bacteria, yeast, and mold
- Accepted by ECOCERT and COSMOS standards for many natural and organic cosmetic formulations
- Paraben-free and formaldehyde-releasing preservative-free
- Effective in both leave-on and rinse-off products
- Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients
- Suitable for natural and premium cosmetic formulations
Benefits & Uses (Short):
- Used in creams and lotions
- Ideal for facial serums
- Suitable for shampoos and conditioners
- Used in face washes and body washes
- Perfect for natural and organic cosmetic formulations
Recommended Usage Level:
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Creams & Lotions: 0.2% – 1.0%
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Serums: 0.2% – 1.0%
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Shampoos & Conditioners: 0.3% – 1.0%
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Face & Body Washes: 0.3% – 1.0%
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Wet Wipes: 0.5% – 1.0%
Formulation Tip: Add Geogard® 221 during the cool-down phase below 45°C. It performs best in formulations with a final pH of 2–7, with optimum performance typically below pH 7. Always verify the final pH and conduct preservative efficacy (challenge) testing for commercial products.
How It Works (Short):
- Protects cosmetic products from contamination by bacteria, yeast, and mold
- Extends the shelf life of water-containing formulations
- Helps maintain product safety and quality during normal consumer use
- Works effectively in emulsions, surfactant systems, and water-based products
- Compatible with many skincare and hair care ingredients
- Blends exceptionally well with Glycerin, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Allantoin, Aloe Vera Extract, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer (pH compatibility should be checked), Disodium EDTA, and Tetrasodium EDTA
Key Benefits for Cosmetic Formulations:
- Broad-spectrum preservation
- ECOCERT/COSMOS accepted
- Paraben-free
- Formaldehyde donor-free
- Suitable for skincare, hair care, and baby care products
FAQs:
Q: What is Geogard® 221 used for?
A: Geogard® 221 is a broad-spectrum preservative used to protect creams, lotions, serums, shampoos, conditioners, cleansers, and other water-containing cosmetic products from microbial contamination.
Q: Is Geogard® 221 suitable for natural cosmetics?
A: Yes. It is accepted under ECOCERT and COSMOS standards for many natural and organic cosmetic formulations.
Q: What is the ideal pH range for Geogard® 221?
A: It performs best in formulations with a final pH between 2 and 7.
Q: When should Geogard® 221 be added?
A: It is recommended to add it during the cool-down phase below 45°C to minimize evaporation of benzyl alcohol and maintain preservative performance.
Q: What ingredients blend well with Geogard® 221?
A: Glycerin, Aloe Vera Extract, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Hyaluronic Acid, Allantoin, Niacinamide, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Tetrasodium EDTA, and most cosmetic emulsifiers and surfactants.
