Propionic Acid

Product Description

Propionic Acid is a short-chain fatty acid widely used in cosmetic and personal care formulations for its preservative and pH regulation capabilities. Produced under strict quality control standards, this high-purity raw material ensures batch-to-batch consistency and reliable performance for global cosmetic manufacturers.

In formulations, Propionic Acid helps inhibit microbial growth, stabilize pH, and maintain formulation integrity. Its versatility allows incorporation into emulsions, gels, lotions, shampoos, and other aqueous and semi-solid systems. Additionally, it demonstrates compatibility with a broad range of cosmetic ingredients, making it a flexible choice for modern formulation development.

With growing demand for effective and robust preservative systems, Propionic Acid offers formulators a reliable solution for maintaining product quality and optimizing pH in various cosmetic applications.

Product Specification

• INCI Name: Propionic Acid
• CAS No.: 79-09-4
• Chemical Formula: C3H6O2
• Function: Preservative aid and pH adjusting agent
• COA: Certificate of Analysis available upon request and supplied with each production batch
• Appearance: Colorless to slightly yellow liquid
• Odor: Pungent, characteristic fatty acid odor
• Solubility: Miscible with water and alcohols
• Suggested Usage Level: Typically 0.1–0.5%, depending on formulation requirements
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from incompatible substances
• pH Compatibility: Preservative performance optimized in formulations maintained within pH 3–6
• Regulatory Status: Verify compliance with local regulations before commercial application

Key Benefits & Applications

Propionic Acid is valued in cosmetic formulations primarily for its preservative function and pH regulation, providing both safety and stability to products.

• Preservative Support: Helps inhibit the growth of microorganisms and supports product preservation.
• pH Adjustment: Assists in maintaining the desired formulation pH for optimal product performance.
• Formulation Stability: Supports overall system integrity and shelf-life consistency.
• Processing Flexibility: Easily incorporated into aqueous and semi-solid cosmetic systems.
• Preservative System Optimization: Can be integrated into multifunctional preservation strategies.
• Premium Applications: Suitable for lotions, creams, gels, shampoos, body care products, and other water-based formulations.

Formulation Guidelines

Propionic Acid can be used to control microbial growth and maintain pH in a wide range of cosmetic formulations.

• Suggested Use Level: Typically 0.1–0.5%, depending on formulation requirements.
• Processing Recommendation: AAdd to the aqueous phase during mixing. Ensure complete dispersion to maintain uniform preservative distribution and effective microbial control.
• Application Types: Suitable for lotions, creams, gels, shampoos, body care products, and other water-based formulations.
• Compatibility: Compatible with common cosmetic ingredients including humectants, emulsifiers, and other preservatives.
• Synergy: Combine with Sodium Levulinate to enhance preservative performance and support naturally inspired formulation systems.