Iscaguard 316 is a liquid preservative blend engineered for modern, “clean beauty” formulations. It combines nature-identical Benzyl Alcohol with naturally derived Propanediol. This synergistic combination offers a robust, broad-spectrum defense against bacteria, yeast, and mold while maintaining a favorable environmental profile.
A standout feature of this blend is its headspace protection. Because Benzyl Alcohol has a specific vapor pressure, it can inhibit microbial growth in the air gap above the product within its packaging—a critical advantage for products housed in jars or pump dispensers where air exposure is frequent.
Formulation Guidelines
- Broad pH Range: Effective across a wide pH spectrum, making it versatile for both acidic and alkaline formulations.
- Solubility: The blend is water-soluble up to the recommended use concentration and is miscible with glycols.
Efficacy & Performance
- MIC Profile: Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) data shows activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus brasiliensis in the range of 0.40–0.50%.
- Booster Effect: Propanediol acts as both a solubilizing agent and an efficacy booster, enhancing the performance of the preservative across various matrix types.
Regulatory & Labeling
- Allergen Note: Formulators should be aware that Benzyl Alcohol is classified as a potential allergen under EU Cosmetic Regulation (Annex III).
- Testing Recommendation: While MIC data indicates strong intrinsic activity, ISO 11930 challenge testing is recommended for finished formulations to confirm efficacy within specific product matrices.
