Other

Hydroxyacetophenone

A next-generation preservative booster — hydroxyacetophenone is simultaneously an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory agent, and a powerful enhancer of other preservatives' action. It allows for a reduction in the concentration of phenoxyethanol and parabens in formulations.

PreservativeAntioxidantBoosterAnti-inflammatory

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Hydroxyacetophenone (4'-hydroxyacetophenone, INCI: Hydroxyacetophenone) — a synthetic phenolic component that is naturally found in some plants. It is not a standalone preservative at typical concentrations but significantly enhances the effect of other preservatives (phenoxyethanol, ethylhexylglycerin, organic acids) — synergist. Mechanism: disrupts bacterial membranes + enhances the penetration of primary preservatives. Effective at concentrations of 0.1–0.5%. EWG: 1.

A preservative system with lowered phenoxyethanol in "clean" cosmetics. Often combined with 1,2-hexanediol or caprylyl glycol. Also used as an active antioxidant in formulations.

Key Benefits

✦

Strengthening preservative systems — less phenoxyethanol

HAP synergizes with phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, and organic acids, allowing for a 30–50% reduction in their concentration. Result: effective preservation with a lower total amount of preservatives — a "cleaner" composition. Popular in natural and clean beauty formulations.

◈

Antioxidant protection of the formula and skin

The phenolic structure neutralizes free radicals and protects active ingredients from oxidation. Additionally protects lipids and carotenoids in the formula from degradation. Dual role: preservative + antioxidant in one molecule.

✧

Anti-inflammatory action and compatibility with the skin

Exhibits moderate anti-inflammatory effects through COX-2 inhibition. EWG safety rating: 1 (lowest). Well tolerated by sensitive skin. Allowed in the EU and USA without restrictions at recommended concentrations (up to 0.5%).

Suitable for

For all skin typesFor sensitive skin

Main Actions

✓ Strengthening preservation✓ Antioxidant protection✓ Anti-inflammatory action

HAP vs Phenoxyethanol

Phenoxyethanol — an effective preservative, but some avoid it due to controversial data. HAP allows reducing PE from 1% to 0.5–0.7% with the same effectiveness. Products with the composition "hydroxyacetophenone + 1,2-hexanediol" or "HAP + caprylyl glycol" are a popular clean beauty alternative to traditional systems.

Check if this ingredient works for your skin — analyze your full product formula for free.

Analyze your product