Paraben-based preservatives have been replaced with natural substances that are gentle on our systems, environmentally friendly and have effective preservative qualities like plant extracts and oils. Paraben-free preservatives include phenoxyethanol, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, neolone, optiphenplus, hydantoin, glycacil, natrulon and benzethonium chloride.
Not as strong as the man-made parabens above, they are often used together with the below natural paraben alternatives:
Phenoxyethanol – The most widely used paraben alternative, phenoxyethanol is an effective and very stable antimicrobial. This is not able to fully prevent growth of fungus and mould on its own, so it is often combined with an anti-fungal preservative such as potassium sorbate or diazolidinyl urea.
Potassium sorbate – Approved by Australian Certified Organic (AOC) for use in organic skincare products, potassium sorbate inhibits moulds and fungus, but only kills a few bacteria, so it is often combined with phenoxyethanol. It is non-toxic and non-sensitizing.
Natural preservatives – There are natural alternatives that offer limited antibacterial protection. Grapefruit seed extract, essential oils of thyme, oregano and tea tree, as well as rosemary and neem extracts are protective against some strains of bacteria and rancidity. Unfortunately, on their own they don’t protect from all forms of bacteria and fungi.
Fortunately, there are skincare creators out there who care about these things. For the good folks at Kadee Botanicals, armed with this knowledge, the answer was clear. Where debate exists as to the safety of man-made parabens as preservatives, and as there are safer alternatives, rather than wait for the conclusive studies they choose to use safer paraben-free ingredients.
Their aim is to create a luxurious beauty routine that takes care of your skin, without the risk of future harm.
Absolutely not! Kadee Botanicals’ skincare range is made using natural ingredients your skin will love. They are full of antioxidants, nutrients and vitamins from plant-based super ingredients that have been used for thousands of years – the Australian Kakadu Plum, Lilly Pilly and Jojoba plants. Their products do not contain parabens, sulphates, mineral oils, artificial colours or fragrances.
Check out their full range at the Kadee Botanicals website. And if you have any questions about skincare ingredients, let them know at hello@kadeebotanicals.com
