These days, with the growing demand for natural and organic products, including cosmetic goods, consumers are expressing a concern for preservatives. So, are preservatives in cosmetics absolutely necessary?
Most cosmetic products are prepared in oil, water, or some combination of oil and water. A few items such as makeup pressed powders are usually prepared as dry mixes with little or no oil or water.
Regardless of preparation method, however, all cosmetic products are meant to be used and kept at room temperature with constant product contact, often for an extended period. This therefore makes it necessary for a special material to be added to protect the integrity of the product.
Product integrity can usually be compromised by:
- Sanitation issues during manufacture.
- Bacteria inclusion through user contact.
- Over-exposure to heat or light or moisture.
That being said, it follows that all cosmetics products must be preserved by some means. This is in an effort to enhance efficacy, appearance and shelf life.
