Choosing a reliable microbial barrier for water-based cosmetic formulas
Neodefend is a broad-spectrum preservative widely used in the production of cosmetic emulsions, creams, lotions, gels and other water-containing formulations. The 10 g pack size is aimed mainly at home formulators and small trial batches, allowing a new recipe to be tested before scaling up to larger production runs. This ingredient belongs to the Preservatives and Antioxidants category, which brings together various systems for protecting formulations against bacteria, mold and yeast.
The main field of use for Neodefend is the cosmetic industry, including facial and body skincare, hair care products, hand creams, makeup base emulsions and moisturizing compositions. It is also applied in liquid soap, shower gel and other water-based household chemical products, where the presence of water creates a real risk of microbial growth. The preservative is effective against a wide range of bacteria and fungi, making it a practical choice for formulas built on plant extracts, hydrosols and other ingredients that are prone to fast spoilage.
Recommended dosage typically ranges from 0.5 to 1.5 percent of the finished product weight, with the exact concentration depending on the formula composition, the acidity of the medium and the storage conditions of the final product. It is best introduced at the final stage of production, at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees, to avoid breaking down the active compounds under excessive heat. Adding it too early or at too high a temperature can reduce its protective efficiency, so it is important to let the main emulsion cool to a safe range first.
Neodefend combines well with other preservatives, which allows building layered protection systems with a wider spectrum of action. For instance, it can be paired with Euxyl K 300 to strengthen defense against yeast and mold in formulas rich in botanical extracts. For recipes requiring additional fungicidal activity, a combination with Nipagin is often used, particularly in creams and emulsions with a longer shelf life. In formulations aimed at oily or blemish-prone skin, pairing with Amipreserve works well, adding a mild exfoliating effect and helping to balance sebum production.
Neodefend should be stored in a tightly sealed container, in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, at room temperature. Under proper storage conditions the preservative retains its declared activity throughout the shelf life stated by the manufacturer. The small pack size is convenient for testing different concentrations on limited volumes, which is especially valuable during the development stage of a new product line or when working with a tight budget.
Light hydrating facial emulsion
Distilled water 70 g
Jojoba oil 8 g
Plant-based emulsifier 6 g
Glycerin 4 g
Neodefend 1 g
Aloe extract 3 g
In
one container combine water with glycerin and aloe extract, heat to 60 degrees.
Separately melt the jojoba oil with the emulsifier to the same temperature.
Combine both phases and mix until a uniform emulsion forms, let it cool to 40
degrees, then add Neodefend and stir thoroughly until fully dissolved. Pour the
finished cream into a prepared jar and let it stabilize at room temperature for
one day.