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HEXAMIDINE PARABEN.

Avoid CAS - / PRESERVATIVE

While 'Hexamidine Paraben' is primarily identified as a pharmaceutical reference standard and not a recognized cosmetic ingredient for human use, research data extensively details Hexamidine and its diisethionate salt. These compounds are potent biocides, acting as antiseptics and preservatives to inhibit microbial growth, alongside demonstrating anti-inflammatory benefits in skincare and haircare.

preservative antibacterial anti-inflammatory antiseptic anti-dandruff

Science

Hexamidine, typically in its diisethionate salt form, exerts a broad-spectrum biocidal effect by disrupting microbial lipid membranes, similar to quaternary ammonium compounds. This action effectively inhibits or eliminates microorganisms, including bacteria (such as those contributing to acne), fungi, and yeast, while also providing anti-inflammatory benefits to alleviate conditions like scalp irritation and dandruff.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.03–0.1%
Optimal

0.1%

Key findings

  1. 01 At 0.1%, Hexamidine Diisethionate demonstrated no primary irritation, inflammation, or sensitization across a clinical cohort of 200 human subjects.
  2. 02 A 0.1% concentration exhibited anti-dandruff efficacy comparable to 1% Zinc Pyrithione in a 4-week daily shampoo study involving 32 volunteers, with sustained benefits for over 70% of participants two weeks post-treatment.
  3. 03 Higher concentrations, such as 1%, were observed to reduce skin bacterial flora by 70% to 90% in 20 healthy volunteers, although this exceeds recommended cosmetic use limits.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The ingredient 'Hexamidine Paraben' is primarily an analytical reference standard and not a recognized cosmetic ingredient. The clinical and safety data presented pertains to Hexamidine and Hexamidine Diisethionate, which are used as active ingredients. Therefore, the concept of 'dusting' does not apply to 'Hexamidine Paraben' in a cosmetic context.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Water-soluble, with optimal pH not specifically detailed in the provided research.


Safety

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
0.1%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed Hexamidine and Hexamidine Diisethionate safe for cosmetic use up to 0.1% in both leave-on and rinse-off formulations. It is critical to note that 'Hexamidine Paraben' as a distinct cosmetic ingredient is not recognized; it serves primarily as a pharmaceutical reference standard and is not intended for human application. Safety assessments, including those from European bodies and CIR, consistently refer to Hexamidine Diisethionate.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Avoid

Given that 'Hexamidine Paraben' is not a recognized cosmetic ingredient and primarily functions as an analytical reference standard, its direct use in formulations should be avoided, with formulators opting for the well-studied Hexamidine Diisethionate.


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