M-CRESOL is graded C** (Moderate) by Expert·ING, based on COSING regulatory data. It is restricted under Health Canada (Restricted).
M-CRESOL
Safety grade: C**
M-cresol is a chemical compound that has antimicrobial properties, meaning it helps prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. It also has a mild aromatic scent and is sometimes used to add fragrance to products.
This ingredient is used in cosmetics to preserve products by preventing bacterial growth and to contribute a subtle scent to formulations.
Graded using: COSING.
- Health Canada — Restricted
Last verified: May 26, 2026
Safer alternatives to M-CRESOL
- CHLORPHENESIN — Grade B. Synthetic preservative with antimicrobial efficacy for product preservation.
- CHLORHEXIDINE DIGLUCONATE — Grade B. Antimicrobial preservative that prevents bacterial growth in formulations.
- CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT — Grade A. Natural extract with documented antimicrobial properties for preservation.
- SODIUM ANISATE — Grade A. Antimicrobial preservative agent that inhibits microbial growth.
Other Antimicrobial ingredients
- ALCOHOL — Grade A**
- C12-15 ALKYL BENZOATE — Grade A
- BENZYL BENZOATE — Grade C
- CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE — Grade A
- HYDROGEN PEROXIDE — Grade C**
- CETYLPYRIDINIUM CHLORIDE — Grade A