Iscaguard PEG is a liquid preservative blend used in cosmetic and personal care products to protect them from bacteria, yeast and mould. If you make lotions, creams, shampoos or any water-containing product, you need a preservative like this to keep it safe and stable for its full shelf life. Iscaguard PEG is built around phenoxyethanol (CAS 122-99-6), a well-established preservative ingredient in the cosmetics industry.
What Iscaguard PEG Is Used For
Any product that contains water — or is likely to have water introduced during use — is at risk of microbial growth. A preservative slows or stops that growth so your product stays safe until the end of its shelf life. Iscaguard PEG is commonly used in:
- Skincare — face and body creams, lotions, serums, gels and cleansers.
- Haircare — shampoos, conditioners and leave-in products.
- Toiletries — body washes, liquid soaps and toners.
- Other applications — it is also referenced for use as a hair-removing agent base and in the textile industry.
It is colourless, has a characteristic mild odour and comes in liquid form, which makes it easy to weigh and blend into most formulations.
How to Use It in Your Formulations
Preservatives are always added at a small percentage of your total batch weight. As a general rule for phenoxyethanol-based blends, a typical usage level is around 0.5% to 1% of the finished product, but you must follow the exact dosage stated on the supplier's technical sheet (COA/MSDS) for your batch.
- Work by weight, not by volume. Weigh your total batch first, then calculate the preservative amount.
- Add Iscaguard PEG in the cool-down phase of your formulation, usually below 40–50°C, after emulsification. High heat can reduce a preservative's effectiveness.
- Stir thoroughly so it is evenly distributed throughout the product.
- Where possible, check the final pH — many preservatives work best within a specific pH range, so keep your product in the range recommended on the technical documents.
Always make a small test batch before scaling up, and if you sell your products, consider getting them independently tested for microbial safety.
Safety and Handling Tips
Preservatives are active ingredients and should be handled with care and respect.
- Never exceed the recommended usage level. More preservative does not make a product safer; it only raises the risk of irritation.
- Do not use it neat on skin. It is a raw material meant to be diluted into a formulation, not applied directly.
- Do not ingest. This is a cosmetic raw ingredient, not a food product.
- Handle in a well-ventilated space, and avoid contact with eyes. Wash your hands after use.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Always patch-test your finished product on a small area before regular use, and read the MSDS for full handling and first-aid guidance.
Buying and Storage
Azlok stocks Iscaguard PEG in pack sizes from 100 g right up to 25 kg, so hobbyists making small batches and small businesses running production can both buy what suits them. Pricing starts at ₹199, and the product is manufactured in India.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Keep the container tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination and evaporation.
- The stated shelf life is 24 months when stored correctly — label your container with the date you received it.
- For larger packs, decant a small working quantity into a clean bottle rather than repeatedly opening the main container.
Ask for the COA and MSDS with your order so you have the batch-specific dosage, pH range and safety information on hand.
FAQ
What is the active ingredient in Iscaguard PEG?
It is a preservative blend based on phenoxyethanol (CAS 122-99-6, chemical formula C6H5OC2H4OH), a widely used cosmetic preservative.
How much Iscaguard PEG should I add to my product?
Typically around 0.5% to 1% of the total batch weight, but always follow the exact dosage on the technical sheet for your batch. Weigh by percentage of the finished product, not by guesswork.
When should I add it during formulation?
Add it in the cool-down phase, usually below 40–50°C after emulsification, and stir well so it is evenly mixed throughout.
Can I use it directly on my skin?
No. It is a raw ingredient meant to be blended into a finished product at a small percentage. It should not be used undiluted or ingested.
How long does it last and how should I store it?
It has a 24-month shelf life when kept in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, with the container tightly closed. Note the receipt date on the bottle for reference.