Natural Preservative - Microcare DB (Cosgard)

Natural Preservative – Microcare DB (Cosgard)

Safe and effective protection for natural cosmetics
Microcare DB (also known as Cosgard or Geogard 221) is one of the most popular natural preservatives, suitable for use in home and professional natural cosmetics. It works across a broad spectrum against bacteria, moulds and fungi and complies with ECOCERT certification, which means it is permitted in natural formulations.

Key benefits

• Broad-spectrum action against bacteria, moulds and fungi

• Compatible with natural cosmetics – permitted under the ECOCERT standard

• Stable at a pH between 3 and 8 (works best at around pH 6)

• Effective even at a concentration of 0.2–1%

• Easy to use – added in the cool phase

• An excellent replacement for Geogard 221 or Cosgard

Use

The preservative is used in small concentrations (between 0.2 and 1%) and is added in the cool phase of production, when the product is no longer hot. It is suitable for all kinds of water-based or water-and-oil cosmetic products:

• creams

• lotions

• gels

• toners

• shampoos

• balms

• liquid soaps

For optimal performance, the final formula should have a pH between 5 and 7.

Microcare DB is a mixture of dehydroacetic acid and benzyl alcohol, which together form a very effective natural preservative. It protects products from microbiological contamination, which is vital for the shelf life and safety of all water-based formulations. It works against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, moulds and yeasts.

It does not affect the scent of the product, is easy to mix in and does not change the texture of the finished product. It is excellent for anyone who wants to make natural homemade cosmetics without synthetic and harsh ingredients, yet with a high level of safety and shelf life.

• For external use only

• Do not use in oral hygiene products

• Do not exceed the recommended dose

• Avoid direct contact with mucous membranes and the eyes

• Store in a dark, cool place, out of the reach of children

INCI: Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol

1. Can I use the preservative in a lip balm?
No, because balms usually contain no water, so a preservative is not needed – and in this case it is not suitable for products applied to the mouth.

2. When should I add it?
Always in the cool phase, once the product has cooled below 40 °C.

3. Does it work in all products?
Yes, in all that contain a water phase. In oil-based products (e.g. butters) a preservative is not needed.

4. Does it have a scent?
It may have a slightly herbal scent, which is not noticeable in the finished product.