Benzyl alcohol

Benzyl alcohol is an aromatic alcohol with a delicate scent. In creams, lotions and shampoos it acts as a preservative - it protects water-based cosmetics from bacteria and mould, keeping the product safe until its expiry date.

It is also a natural component of many essential oils and fragrance compositions. It belongs to the fragrance substances that EU law requires to be listed by name in the ingredients, so that people with allergies can easily avoid them.