Ethylhexylglycerin (EHG) killed nine types of bacteria found on healthy skin at concentrations allowed in cosmetics (≤0.3%), but it was moderately strong compared to other preservatives tested. Two preservatives (MTI and IPBC) were more effective at killing bacteria, while phenoxyethanol was weaker—meaning EHG sits in the middle of the antimicrobial spectrum.

Researchers isolated nine different bacteria species from the faces of 14 healthy adults, then tested five common cosmetic preservatives to see how well each one killed these bacteria in a lab setting. They measured the minimum amount needed to inhibit bacterial growth at the maximum concentration allowed by cosmetic safety regulations.

Funding not disclosed in abstract