What it is
A chlorinated phenol ether preservative.
What it does
Antimicrobial in creams, lotions, and cosmetics.
Why it’s a concern
France’s ANSM issued a safety warning in 2008 against chlorphenesin in products for children under two after reports of adverse reactions including respiratory depression in infants. Contact dermatitis is reported. Adults tolerate it better than infants.
Also known as
3-(4-chlorophenoxy)-1,2-propanediol
CAS numbers
104-29-0
Commonly found in
lotioncreamcosmetics
Safer alternatives
- phenoxyethanol
- sodium benzoate
- glyceryl caprylate
Sources
- ANSM Advisory 2008