BENZOIC ACID is graded C** (Moderate) by Expert·ING, based on COSING, FDA regulatory data. It is restricted under EU COSING (Restricted use).
BENZOIC ACID
Safety grade: C**
Benzoic acid is a naturally occurring organic compound found in many plants and fruits like berries and honey. It's commonly used in cosmetics as a preservative to keep products fresh and prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
This ingredient preserves cosmetic products by preventing microbial growth, adds bulk to formulations, and can mask unpleasant odors in cosmetic products.
Graded using: COSING, FDA.
- EU COSING — Restricted use
Last verified: June 7, 2026
Safer alternatives to BENZOIC ACID
- POTASSIUM SORBATE — Grade B. Preservative that prevents microbial growth like benzoic acid does.
- SORBIC ACID — Grade B. Preservative that prevents microbial growth like benzoic acid does.
- DEHYDROACETIC ACID — Grade B. Preservative that prevents microbial growth like benzoic acid does.
Other Preservative ingredients
- SODIUM BENZOATE — Grade C
- PHENOXYETHANOL — Grade B**
- BENZYL ALCOHOL — Grade C**
- METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE — Grade C
- METHYLPARABEN — Grade C
- SALICYLIC ACID — Grade C**
- METHYLCHLOROISOTHIAZOLINONE — Grade C