✨ 25% off Fixed Oils & Butters - Shop Now!

📦 Free Shipping on orders over $25*

New / Trends

Deals

Resources

OUR BRANDS:

Cosmetic Additives

Additives A to Z

Cosmetic Additives - A to C

Cosmetic Additives - D to K

Cosmetic Additives - L to P

Cosmetic Additives - R to Z

Additives By Group

Preservative - Sorbic Acid +2 PF

5.0	197 reviews \| 116 answered questions

261 Customers Recently Bought

See Customer Photos

Made in THE USA

Size

2 oz $14.45 115.60lb Most Popular 1 lb $71.45 71.45lb 7 lb $470.95 67.28lb Best Deal

Preservative - Sorbic Acid +2 PF

Select Size Add To Wish List

Pay in 4 interest-free payments on purchases of $30-$1,500 Learn more

View All →

Product Details

Formerly known as Optiphen Plus. Ashland Chemical is the manufacturer and owner of the trademark Optiphen Plus. We have received legal notice that small suppliers may no longer use the brand name of the product. Therefore on 11/20/2017 we have changed the product name as they have requested.

Use this paraben free preservative in lotion, body wash, shampoo, conditioner scrubs and sprays.Effective at pH levels below 6.0. Highly effective broad spectrum antimicrobial preservative. No formaldehyde donors. Compatible with most raw materials. Contains sorbic acid which offers protection for anti-fungal and anti-mold activity.

Why People Use This Product:
To prevent bacteria, mold and fungal growth in products.

Popular Products That Use This Ingredient:
Lotions. Creams. Not for Lips.

Interesting Facts:
Paraben Free. Formaldehyde Free.
Manufacturing Temperatures: No Higher than 176ºF
Formula pH: Best Below 6.0
Effective Against: Bacteria, Mold, Yeast

This product is not on the CA Prop 65 list of toxic chemicals.

This product conforms to the reporting requirements of California Proposition 65 (Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986). We are conforming to the regulation by reporting the existence, or lack thereof, of ingredients deemed reportable by the above mentioned regulations via a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), in Section 15 "Regulatory Information." Ingredients from Natural Food Sources (NFS) and are exempt from reporting in accordance with Title 27, § 25501(a).

International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI):
Phenoxyethanol (and) Caprylyl Glycol (and) Sorbic Acid

Common Name Ingredient Listing (FDA Approved):
Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbic Acid

Directions:

DIRECTIONS: Slowly stir into liquids at a temperature below 176°F (80ºC). Common use levels for the oil are lotions and creams 0.75-1.5%. This product preserves water and oil based products with a pH below 6.0.

TIPS: Performs best when formulation pH levels are below 6.0. The recommended usage rates are provided only as a guideline to provide proper preservation. Adding at end of emulsion when product is coolest gives best results. All new formulations should be tested to ensure preservative efficacy.

STORAGE: Store in an airtight, cool, dark location. When stored properly, best used within 1 year from date of purchase.

WARNING: Not approved for lip products.

CAUTION: Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Product Information:

Country Of Origin United States

CA Prop 65

Documents:

Declaration of Conformity Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Animal Testing Statement

Have more questions? See Q&A

Recipes & Videos (55)

Almond Milk & Sea Salt Hand & Body Lotion Recipe

Apple Cider Lotion Recipe

Argan Hand and Body Lotion Recipe

Aromatherapy Citrus Lime Foot Scrub Recipe

Aromatherapy Linen Spray Recipe

Beer Lotion for Men Recipe

Bourbon Vanilla In-Shower Moisturizer Recipe

Cashmere and Pear Body Whip Recipe

Cedarwood & Sage Mechanic Scrub

Cool Menthol Foot Scrub Recipe

Creamy Goat Milk Body Wash Recipe

Creamy Vanilla Fig Emulsified Sugar Scrub Recipe

Detangling Conditioner Spray

Soothing + Protecting Face Cream Recipe

Facial Scrub and Moisturizer Set Recipe

Floral Rose Face Mask

Guest Room Temple Soother and Pillow Spray Set Recipe

Hair Conditioner and Detangler Recipe

Hair Pomade

Heat Protectant Spray Recipe

Hemp Body Moisturizer Recipe

Hemp Lotion - CBD Ready

Hemp Lotion (from scratch) Recipe

Hibiscus Face Mask Recipe

Holly Jolly Soap Jelly Shots

Hot Cocoa Lotion Recipe

Lemon Almond Hand/Body Cream Recipe

Lemon Lavender Emulsified Sugar Scrub

Mango Papaya Sugar Scrub Recipe

Matcha & Sea Clay Face Mask

Nourishing Shampoo and Conditioning Treatment Recipe

Oatmeal and Aloe Lotion Recipe

Pumpkin Sugar Scrub Recipe

Refreshing Facial Spritz Recipe

Rosewater Geranium Lotion Recipe

Rose Hip Foaming Facial Scrub

Rosemary Mint Hand/Body Lotion Recipe

Sea Salt Hair Spritz Recipe

Shea Sugar Scrub

Shimmery Marshmallow Fluff Lotion Recipe

Silky Body Lotion Recipe

Soap Dough

Spiced Pumpkin Latte Scrub Recipe

Toilet Spray

Ultra-Hydrating Face Cream Recipe

Vanilla Lavender Linen and Room Spray

Yoga Mat Spray Recipe

Argan Hand and Body Lotion Recipe Video

Aromatherapy Linen Spray Recipe Video

Bourbon Vanilla In-Shower Moisturizer Recipe Video

Cashmere and Pear Body Whip Video

DIY Vanilla Bourbon Mechanic Scrub

Hair Conditioner and Detangler Video

Hot Cocoa Lotion Recipe Video

Refreshing Facial Spritz Recipe Video

Questions & Answers (116)

Question + Answer. Here you can ask or answer questions All questions are queued and answered quickly during business hrs. You can also answer questions posted by other customers if you have valuable information.

Submit A Question

116 Question(s) Shown Below

Posted By: Rayna | November 29, 2022

"In a lot of your foaming bath whip recipes I see this preservative being used. In other foaming bath whip recipes, I see a water soluble preservative being used. Which preservative is best to use with your foaming bath whip to make sugar scrubs?? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Vanessa | February 23, 2022

"Hello,I want to make foaming sugar scrubs of a batch of 48oz in a 8oz jar how much sorbic acid +2 would I need to add?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Corine | January 08, 2022

"Hello, can this be used as a preservative for Hair Oil. My oils are Olive, Grapeseed, and Avocado. I’m also using raw Aloe Vera, mixed with Fenugreek seeds and boil all ingredients together. Also is there a Natural Preservative? Thank you so kindly in advance. "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Marylu | December 13, 2021

"Can I substitute Phenonip for sorbic acid +2 for your toilet spray recipe? Thank you!"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: dianna | November 04, 2021

"Hello! Would there need to be any allergen or warnings on the label if using this preservative?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Vanessa | October 24, 2021

"Ive been using this preservative for a few years. Working wonderfully for my aloe vera lotion. But I continue to have problems with it clumping in my sugar scrubs, no matter what temp I use. Is this because the scrubs are oil based? Please tell me which of your preservatives I should use that will work better for my sugar scrubs."

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Marishka | August 23, 2021

"Can this be used to preserve goat milk face lotion? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Leyda | August 20, 2021

"What is the difference between this preservative and the phenoxyethanol + cg? And when would I choose one over the other?"

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: MONIQUE | July 27, 2021

"Hello, is it possible to not use the preservative for a more natural product? Do I really have to use it for this recipe? Thank you, have a good day!"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Tatiana | July 04, 2021

"Hi, I want to make fresh fruit body scrubs as in raspberry with coconut oil and sugar would this preservative work? And if not what preservative would work because I have been searching for this answer for a while and do not know what preservative would work. I hope that you can help me. Also how do I test a product for its PH balance?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Mika | May 09, 2021

"Which preservative would be better for a batch consisting of whipped aloe vera gel (62%), water, (3%) glycerin, oil (32%), and (3%) GelMaker EMU (Pre-neutralized polymer in an inverse emulsion, pH: 5-7 (2% aqueous gel)). These are estimates because I accidentally made this. "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Meghan | May 04, 2021

"I have Germaben ii and Germaben E ii and still learning about Preservatives and how expensive they are can use either if the Germaben in our if this Preservative if im making Lotions and Scrubs?? TIA"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Keisa | April 21, 2021

"Hello! Is this an all natural product? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Andrea | March 09, 2021

"I'm new to using preservatives. At what point do I add this ingredient when making a large batches of oil based sugar and/or salt scrub? I saw comments about clumping and using high temperatures. My scrub is not heated when formulating. Is that step necessary when using this preservative?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: TERA | March 07, 2021

"Can this preservative be used in a diy body spray?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: MJ | April 26, 2020

"I tried using this in a sugar scrub recipe I found here (Vanilla Fig Emulsified Sugar Scrub) and as soon as I added it and began to stir it in, hand whisked and stand mixer, it clumped it and stuck to the whisk. Temperature was at 120/125F, and was just in the oil phase getting ready to add the sugar. Any suggestions on how to incorporate this into my mixture? "

Click Here To View 2 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Denise | December 13, 2020

"what is a good sub for usage in the ultra hydrating face cream?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: ash | December 06, 2020

"What is the maximum time I could wait to add this preservative? EX. If I make my product on Monday could I wait until Tuesday evening to add this ?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Edward | December 05, 2020

"Hi, it’s my understanding that this Sorbic Acid is formally Optiphen Plus. Can it be used without an emulsifier? I have a hair spritz that consist of Aloe Vera Juice, Water and Fractionated Coconut Oil. The oil floats on top, but I don’t mind. I just shake well with each use. I just need to preserve it from going bad. Also, how long can it last with the Sorbic Acid Preservative? Thank you for answering my question!"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Gabriel | December 04, 2020

"Can I use this in a soap I’m adding oatmeal, cinnamon, coffee and brown sugar too? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: jasmine | December 01, 2020

"When it say maximum usage 1.5% would I just include water and oils? I am also using several plant powder extracts, xanthan gum and citric acid. Am I supposed to include those in the percentage or no since for example adding a plant powder to water it will dissolve and still generally be the same amount of water so would I not include the amount of the plant powder and such when calculating 1.5% to ensure I dont go over the 1.5%? Thank you!"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Jenny | October 04, 2020

"Would this work to preserve the distilled water that I hydrate my Hyaluronic Acid powder with, if I were to then incorporate that HA gel into an anhydrous, aloe-based face serum? I'm not quite sure what the pH of the serum is as it's anhydrous, but it consists of mostly of aloe vera juice, glycerin, and sunflower oil..."

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Sabrina | September 22, 2020

"Can this preservative be used in whipped soap?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Genevieve | September 06, 2020

"how do I measure this? I don't understand .75% to 1.5% of total weight. If i use a pound of whipping foam base how much of this should I put in?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Mia | August 31, 2020

"Hello, would you say this is the best option for my body butter without water. Also will it be compatible with the sorbic acid in my recipe? Thank you."

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Sandretta | August 19, 2020

"Can I use this in an aloe vera juice, glycerin & water mix?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Mia | August 13, 2020

"Hello, I am looking to use this for my body butter, but I also want to start making chapstick soon, what can I use for that if not this?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Stacy | August 12, 2020

"Can I use this with your Rosemary extract water for a hair spray?"

Click Here To View 3 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Staff Answer We do not carry Rosemary Extract Water but we do have Rose Water Essential Hydrosol which you might be referring to. This does have its own preservative. We do not know what the base of your hair spay is but if it contains additional water, you would need an additional preservative.

Posted By: WSP Staff | Date: August 12, 2020

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

I meant your Rosemary Oleoresin Extract (ROE)** that’s available. So since this already has preservatives I’d add additional only if I’m mixing in more water?

Posted By: Stacy | Date: August 12, 2020

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Staff Answer The Rosemary Oleoresin Extract does not contain a preservative because it is an oil. But yes, if you were mixing in any additional water you would need a preservative.

Posted By: WSP Staff | Date: August 12, 2020

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Posted By: Alison | July 22, 2020

"Do you recommend using this in a makeup cleansing balm?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Lori | July 20, 2020

"Can this be mixed with Poly 20 in a water based room spray?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Dee | July 20, 2020

"Hello, I'm trying to figure out how much of this to use in a sugar scrub. I know it states to use between 0.75% - 1.5%, but what would that measure in terms of teaspoons/tablespoons? I'm making a whipped sugar scrub that's going to be about 8 oz's. "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Aislinn | June 29, 2020

"May I just ask for a sanity check as this is the first time I am using SA+2PF? " Slowly stir into liquids at a temperature below 176°F (80ºC)" does this mean I slowly add & stir the preservative to my water just before pouring it to my oils for emulsification?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Jazmyne M. | June 25, 2020

"Will this product work well if I am making scented room sprays?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Amina | June 04, 2020

"How do I calculate how much needs to be used for all of my different products?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Shu Yun | May 27, 2020

"Can i use this preservative for your conditioning shampoo bars(SCI) recipe? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Selines | December 15, 2019

"Hi, I use this preservative in my oil sugar scrubs. However, do i calculate the batch size by the oils or after adding the sugar and then determine amount of preservative to add to the batch? I have lets say 8 oz oils and then add about 16oz of sugar, total batch 24oz? or is it just my oil that I count as my batch size to determine amount of preservative? Thank you!"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Sonja | December 05, 2019

"Why does this preservative separate when added to my lotion? What can I do to prevent this from happening? Did I just waste 15 oz of Hemp Seed Oil?"

Click Here To View 5 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Staff Answer We are not sure why this might be separating in your lotion. Be sure to add the recommended amount. Your lotion may just need to be mixed further until the preservative is well incorporated.

Posted By: WSP Staff | Date: December 09, 2019

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

I added a little glycerin and that took care of the issue. Perhaps the recipe should be revised because it doesn't include glycerin in it.

Posted By: Sonja | Date: December 09, 2019

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Staff Answer We are glad to hear adding glycerin helped with the separation. You did not state what recipe you were following.

Posted By: WSP Staff | Date: December 09, 2019

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

This is the recipe I was following. https://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/handmade101/how-to-make-recipes/hemp-lotion.aspx

Posted By: Sonja | Date: December 09, 2019

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Staff Answer We have never had issues with any separation with this recipe. After adding this preservative, it can thin out the lotion. That might be why it was separating. Also, make sure the waxes have completely melted. You may need to continue whipping until it thickens back up. Or, place in the fridge until it thickens back up again. Even though we have not had this problem, we will post your suggestions in case others have this problem also. Thank you.

Posted By: WSP Staff | Date: December 09, 2019

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Posted By: Julia | November 06, 2019

"Would this work in the SFIC liquid soap base?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Sheila | October 24, 2019

"I’ve been storing my sorbic acid +2 in the fridge. Is that ok?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: katherine | October 11, 2019

"Can I use sorbic acid 2 pf in the soothing face toner recipe? And what suggested amount. Thanks "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Tamar | September 22, 2019

"I have Optiphen not Optiphen plus, can I use this and if so in what amount?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Lyndsey | July 17, 2019

"is this paraben free too? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Elizabeth | June 07, 2019

"How do I list (what wording) this on my ingredient label for room sprays?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Jeff | May 28, 2019

"I am making a tattoo lotion to be applied during and after a new tattoo. Can I use this preservative in my recipe? My specific concern is of course the possibility of the entry to the blood stream during the tattoo. Thanks."

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Elaine | March 30, 2019

"I added .75% of the Optiphen Plus to 2 oz. ea. of your Rose and Vanilla hydrosols mixed with 4 oz. of Witch Hazel but it would not completely dissolve into the mixture. Little bubbles throughout and larger ones floating on top no matter how much I mixed it up. There’s nothing to indicate this, but does it need to be mixed with a solubilizer in water based products? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Kelly | March 26, 2019

"Hello, I just found a big bottle of (Optiphen) that was hiding in the back of a shelf. Lol It is well over a year old. I "hate" to think I would have to throw it out...can it still be used? Thanks so much!! : )"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Brandi | March 25, 2019

"Is this all natural? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: BB | March 07, 2019

"I would appreciate some guidance, according to the safty info this should not be used on lips; hower, it appears to be the best preservative for toner and facial spritz as they are aerosol. It also appears to be a great perservative for scrubs so I am interested in it for a facial scrub, but once again I am unsure due to the lip limitation. Can you please advise if this is safe for the uses I have mentioned? Thank You!"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Sandra | February 11, 2019

"I am working with a Soap that is 9 ph plus, How can I lower the ph to work with this preservative?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Brian | January 25, 2019

"Can I mix this with Water ,and apple Cider vinegar ?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Beth | January 17, 2019

"what is the best preservative for carbomer gels?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Nicole | November 16, 2018

"My customer needs to know if the caprylyl glycol in this is derived from coconuts? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: teresa | November 14, 2018

"Can I use this for a homemade hydrosol that tested 6 in ph?.. it says below 6 but is is exactly 6. I am looking to extend the shelf life of my hydrosol."

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Kellie | October 28, 2018

"Are Sorbic Acid and Phenonip interchangeable?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Nicole | September 10, 2018

"Im trying to find a preservative that goes well with all of my products so I dont have to buy a bunch of different types of preservatives. Can this be used in shower lotion bars?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Dianna | September 07, 2018

"I am looking to make a cucumber extract by pureeing a cucumber and straining out the liquid to use...would this preserve the cucumber liquid? Thank You"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: camille | August 15, 2018

"what other preservative I can use instead of this"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Becca | June 27, 2018

"Hi I'm making lotion & ned to know how much to use. what is the usage rate? will this also work with fresh goats milk to make a lotion? If not what would work best? I make sugar scrubs with the foaming bath whip base, do i need an additional preservative for that? Thank you"

Click Here To View 3 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Staff Answer Common use levels for the oil are lotions and creams 0.75-1.5%. This product preserves water and oil based products with a pH below 6.0.

Posted By: WSP Staff | Date: June 28, 2018

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Staff Answer This could work with goat milk lotion but will require testing for performance.

Posted By: WSP Staff | Date: June 28, 2018

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Staff Answer The foaming bath whip has preservative and as long as used as directed will not need additional preservative.

Posted By: WSP Staff | Date: June 28, 2018

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Posted By: Nicole | April 19, 2018

"How long is the extended shelf life? I have read that it can be 2 yrs.if closed tightly and not exposed to sunlight. Is that true? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: L. | April 05, 2018

"I currently have Germaben. I am looking for a paraben and formaldehyde free preservative for liquid soap, body butter and lotion. Would this suffice for all three products or do you recommend a specific preservative for each product? Thanks."

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: nicole | January 07, 2018

"will this be helpful with keeping lip balms fresh? scrubs too that are oil based -- but clearly come in contact with water? and finally, how exactly do i calculate usage ? thank you so much"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Flee | December 14, 2017

"Is this the exact formula as Opthipen Plus?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Jeanne | November 26, 2017

"Is this preservative vegan?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Susan | November 07, 2017

"I started using Optiphen Plus for a body/face wash that contains aloe vera gel and it is thinning the product out. What alternate preservatives do you suggest?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Khoa | September 08, 2017

"I'm adding Optiphen Plus to my lotion (unscented) at 1%, at ~35C. However I can still smell the characteristic odor of Optiphen Plus. How can I make it disappear? Is there any known scent that will mask/neutralize that smell?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Briana | August 23, 2017

"Will this preservative work well in a flaxseed hair gel?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Kimberly | July 25, 2017

"Hi regarding the Optiphen Plus, does there need to be a certain percentage of oils in the formulation for this preservative to work properly? I just did a lotion with 82% water and 16% total of oils, butters, ewax and stearic acid. EO is2% if that counts for the oils too. Thanks again for all your help, you guys are great ! "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Leilani | July 24, 2017

"Would this preservative be appropriate to be used in toners, such as with witch hazel?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Miriah | July 08, 2017

"Sorry if someone asked this and i missed it. Would this be the preservative i would use with the dog shampoo base? I use the WSP shampoo base and some contain a mixture of tea tree, EO/FO & vitamin E. Thank you!"

Click Here To View 3 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Valerie | June 26, 2017

"Has anyone had success substituding this for Germaben IIE? Thanks"

Click Here To View 3 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Staff Answer This depends on the product you are putting it into. Germaben II is for products with over 25% oils and butter, such as scrubs. Optiphen Plus is recommended for lotions and creams.

Posted By: WSP Staff | Date: June 28, 2017

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

I make a lotion/cream with oil in it and use Germaben IIE. Anyone have experience use optiphen Plus as a subtitude? trying to get a useful straight answer Before I Orger. Thanks!

Posted By: Valerie | Date: June 28, 2017

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Staff Answer We would normally recommend using Germaben II for lotions as they are mainly water. The Optiphen Plus will also work well in your lotions. You can see all of the recipes we have used with this product: http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/products/optiphen-plus.aspx.

Posted By: WSP Staff | Date: June 29, 2017

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Posted By: Valerie | June 24, 2017

"Should I use Optiphen Plus or Optiphen ND to replace Germaben IIE for my creams? I am going to order, thanks!"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Valerie | June 24, 2017

"do you recommend that I use the same amount of Optiphen Plus for my cream that I used with the Germall plus?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: kari | March 29, 2017

"Will the optiphen plus work for my goat milk lotion? It is made with fresh milk not powdered! I am using a recipe I barrowed from your recipe page but I want to substitute part of the water with milk! Thank you! "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Lauri | March 24, 2017

"I am looking for a multi purpose broad spectrum preservative that is paraban free. Would this product be good for lotions, body scrubs, etc no matter the water or oil percentage? Some products will be water based while others are oil based "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Barbara | April 19, 2016

"Do you challenge test your preservatives? If I make a one of your recipes using your ingredients, and following the recipe exactly, is it safe to assume that the preservative will work correctly? I have kept lotions made with your preservatives for more than a year, and have never seen any indication of spoilage. "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Yoshi | March 01, 2016

"Can this preservative be used in Homemade Flax Seed/Xanthan Gum Hair Gel? If not, what can I use in homemade gel to preserve it? Also, can lemon juice be used to bring down the PH in gel/shampoo?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Susan | February 02, 2016

"can this be used for oil based sugar or salt scrubs?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Brittney | January 31, 2016

"help! I ran out of this! and I am making a batch of lotion! is there a substitute I could use!!!"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Natalie | January 23, 2016

"How much Optiphen should be added to 5lb of salt or sugar mixture with oils? Thanks for doing this!"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: yamira | December 14, 2015

"Is this the same as regular optiphen? Because as far as my research goes, optiphen plus is not compatible with anhydrous products. Do you sell regular optiphen?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Karen | July 05, 2015

"I am looking for a non formaldehyde release, Paraben free preservative for my hot process shampoo. Would you recommend Optiphen Plus and if not, what would you recommend? "

Click Here To View 3 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Staff Answer Yes, Optiphen Plus is a paraben free preservative that doe not contain any formaldehyde donors.

Posted By: WSP Staff | Date: August 06, 2015

(2) Found this helpful. Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

lye based soaps have a higher pH than what optiphen allows for

Posted By: Royce | Date: December 06, 2015

(1) Found this helpful. Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Staff Answer The ideal pH levels for shampoo are between 4-4.5 and if those levels reach higher than 7 it will be hard to keep moisture in your hair even with conditioner.

Posted By: WSP Staff | Date: December 09, 2015

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Posted By: Anna | December 02, 2015

"Can you use this in liquid suspension soap base?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Ryan | November 26, 2015

"I've read that Optiphen Plus is incompatible (it decomposes in) PVC plastic containers. Do you know if Optiphen Plus can be used in PET plastic containers? Thanks."

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Curtis | October 19, 2015

"Does Optiphen Plus accelerate the degradation of essential oils?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Nelsa | September 17, 2015

"i want to make a sugar scrub using pureed pumpkin. will i be able to use this preservative and if so how long is the shelf life?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Bonnie | September 14, 2015

"If I use nuts,cocoa or any food product in my scrubs, do I need a preservative? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: SCOTT | July 01, 2015

"Could this be used for a body scrub that consists of just sugar/salt and coconut oil? I like to add a preservative because it does come in contact with water for a shower or bath. I have been using Phenonip, but would love something that is paraben-free. I am not sure though if this will mix/work with an oil-only recipe."

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Thanh | July 01, 2015

"Will this be okay to use in a toothpaste formula? It contains water, coconut oil, and betonite clay. "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Michelle | May 19, 2015

"I am looking for an all around good preservative for lotions, whipped soap, etc. Is there a good one that can be used for many different products? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Traci | April 29, 2015

"How long does it preserve a water based spray? I am looking at making a room spray with water, essential oils, and a binding agent you sell which I can't think of the name right now. Unless there is some type of alcohol that would be a better base than water, that would make a longer expiration date on the product that you sell. Also, is it safe on the skin? "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Vickey | February 20, 2015

"I would like a preservative that is paraben free. Which one of the many that you carry, would you recommend? I make lotions and scrubs. Thank you!"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Beunka | February 09, 2015

"How much should I use in 3.4 oz of rosewater? Thanks! "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Sherry | December 09, 2014

"Is Optiphen Plus a good choice for preserving Goat Milk in Lotions?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Bhakti | November 13, 2014

"Would Optiphen Plus be useful and work well with the hair condition base offered here?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Kris | October 29, 2014

"How much of this should I use in a room spray?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: mabel | September 21, 2014

"I see you have establish usage as per 4 ounce base I dont understand still how to use this , base meaning what? The amount of ? Can you help"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Nelsa | August 09, 2014

"If I have 4 ounces of product how much Optiphen do I use? Example a body scrub."

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Jessica | March 15, 2014

"I know this is for water based products, but will this also help prevent butters and oils from going rancid?"

Click Here To View 3 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Optiphen Plus isn't limited to water based products. This preservative guards against fungal and bacterial growths in products with a lower pH.

Posted By: Denise | Date: March 18, 2014

(1) Found this helpful. Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

This is an excellent product used to protect your products against bacteria, yeast, & mold and can reduce the effects that these factors have on your butters/oils. However good storing practices--keeping your the bottles closed tightly and stored in a cool dark place will greatly improve shelf life. In addition you can add an antioxidant like vitamin e or ROE or use a product called Ox-Blox designed to shield your oils from the effects of the air.

Posted By: Shana | Date: June 04, 2014

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

No. Optiphen Plus is a preservative, not an antioxidant, which you would need to protect your oils against rancidity. I recommend using vitamin E oil (not to be confused with Vitamin E acetate) at up to 0.5%.

Posted By: Bradley | Date: July 22, 2014

Was this answer helpful? Yes | No

Posted By: krissy | June 04, 2014

"I was wondering if this would work well for bath bombs?is so how much would you recommend?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: VICKY | May 16, 2014

"I was wanting to try optiphen in my lotions and salves. I noticed there were a lot of comments about working in pH levels <6. I have no idea what the pH of my lotions or salves are, nor do I know how to check it.?? Can you help me with this. I really want a paraben free preservative, but I want it to be EFFECTIVE most of all! Thank you"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: karla | May 20, 2014

"Is the percentage based on how much water content is in the lotion or based on the volume of the lotion itself?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Cynthia M. | March 22, 2014

"I make liquid soap using blocks of your soap base and rosewater, oatmeal water, etc. for use on the face and body. How do you determine the amount of Optiphen to use in the formula? Or does this require a preservative? All that I have read seems to indicate that it is needed since water is being introduced. Thank you for your time. "

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: TaKeisha | March 23, 2014

"Would this product be good to use in lotion and sugar/salt scrubs?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Heather | March 08, 2014

"Could you tell me if this is safe to put in products that will be going directly on the face...ie creams, washes...? Should I reduce the % added to the mixture? Thank you for your help!"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Lisa | February 26, 2014

"Can I use this in the multi-spray formula instead of germaben?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Cheryl | October 30, 2013

"I am looking for a preservative for my water-based potassium hydroxide foaming hand soap that tends to become rancid after a couple of months. Is optiphen the best alternative, and how much should I use per batch -- the same .5 to 1.5 percent? Thank you!"

Click Here To View 2 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Michelle | February 22, 2014

"Is this sold by weight or by volume?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Kristen | January 29, 2014

"Can this be used in products such as mascara or other products used around the eyes?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Kathy | January 13, 2014

" I'm confused about which Optiphen to purchase. I would like to use it in my water-based lotion. Optiphen Plus should be fine since lotion PH is usually between 4 & 5. But I don't want a product with restrictions for it's use. Is regular Otiphen OK to use in lower PH products? Which preservative would be best for water-based lotions?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: bonishia | December 27, 2013

"Im looking for a preservative for my combine oils and was wondering is this a good preservative or do i really need a preservative since i do add Vitamin E "

Click Here To View 2 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Tracy | October 18, 2013

"I was wondering how much do i use in lotion bars, scrubs things with oils not water? thank you Tracy"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Jane E | October 17, 2013

"Is there a shelf life for Optiphen Plus itself? I don't mean the product the Optiphen Plus is added to but the actual Optiphen Plus itself. Does the Optiphen Plus lose it's potency over time just sitting on the shelf? Does it go bad? Thanks."

Click Here To View 2 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: connie lucialla | September 22, 2013

"How long of a shelf life do you have using optiphen plus in lotion products"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: Angie | August 22, 2013

"Specifically how is Optiphen Plus different from Optiphen? Does Optiphen Plus replace basic Optiphen or is there any instance in which regular Optiphen would be preferable to Optiphen Plus?"

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Posted By: FELICIA | September 12, 2013

"What is the ratio of product to optiphen."

Click Here To View 1 answer(s)

Email Me When This Question Gets Answered

Customer Reviews (197)

Submit A Rating

Average Customer Rating:

(197 Reviews)

David • Tennessee

Date Submitted: 07/28/2022

I Recommend This Product!

	"Great paraben free preservative option"
COMMENTS: This is a good paraben free product. Mostly used in sugar scrubs and lotions. We have trialed this product in our lotions. Results showed no "noticeable" fungus, mold, bacteria, etc growth in lotions even after 3 years on the shelf.
PRODUCT USED IN: Exfoliants & Sugar Scrubs, Lotions, Creams & Butters

carolyn • Texas

Date Submitted: 01/07/2022

I Recommend This Product!

"No mold after 2 years"

COMMENTS: This product does a great job of preserving my lotions. I had tried the natural preservatives and had mold after 6 months. I have lotions at least 2 years old which have no sign of mold.

PRODUCT USED IN: Lotions, Creams & Butters

THINGS I LIKE		THINGS I'D LIKE TO CHANGE
• preserves great

Jennifer • Maryland

Date Submitted: 04/16/2020

I Recommend This Product!

	"Great for bath bombs"
COMMENTS: I would not normally used these in bath bombs, but when I did it made all the difference
PRODUCT USED IN: Bath Fizzies & Salts, Lotions, Creams & Butters

Dawn • Texas

Date Submitted: 03/15/2020

I Recommend This Product!

	"Preservative Sorbic Acid+2 PF"
COMMENTS: This was in a scrub kit.
PRODUCT USED IN: Exfoliants & Sugar Scrubs

Leane • Florida

Date Submitted: 11/05/2019

I Recommend This Product!