What is it?
Phenoxyethanol is a chemical that has many applications such as bactericide, preservative, and antiseptic.

How can I avoid it?
Skin contact with Phenoxyethanol is required for it to cause a rash. Discontinuation of exposure to products containing Phenoxyethanol should result in improvement and/or the resolution of your dermatitis. By law, all products made in the U.S. for topical use have the ingredients listed either on the product package or the box that contains it. Check the labeling of your skincare products for this ingredient. If there is not enough information, ask your pharmacist or contact the company directly. At work, request a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to help identify potential sources of exposure.

Uses:
  • Baby products
  • Dyes
  • Inks
  • Insect repellent
  • Resins
  • Skincare products/Cosmetics
    • Antiperspirants/Deodorants
    • Baby wipes, lotions, and soaps
    • Hair sprays, gels, tonics, and lotions
    • Hair “permanents-relaxers”
    • Make-ups
    • Moisturizers
    • Powders/Sprays
    • Shampoos/Conditioners
    • Shaving products
    • Soaps/Cleansers/Hand sanitizers
    • Sunscreens and self-tanners
    • Toothpaste
  • Pharmaceutical preparations (topical)
  • Ultrasound gel
  • Wipes
Other names for phenoxyethanol:
  • Euxyl K-400 (mixture with methyldibromo glutaronitrile)
  • P.E.
  • Ethanol, 2-Phenoxy-
  • Ethylene Glycol Monophenyl Ether
  • 2-Hydroxyethyl Phenyl Ether
  • 2-Phenoxyethanol
  • 2-Phenoxyethanol (RIFM)
  • phenoxyethanolum (EP)
  • 2-Phenoxyethyl Alcohol
  • Phenoxytol
Potential cross-reacting/co-reacting substances:
  • None known

MCS7562-273rev0421

How safe is it?

Hang tight. We're thinking.