Benzalkonium Chloride in skincare: is it safe?
What it is
Benzalkonium Chloride is an ingredient Klyva classifies under Preservative.
Is it safe?
Benzalkonium Chloride is permitted in cosmetics but restricted by concentration under EU rules — Klyva flags it at low concern. A preservative restricted by concentration in the EU; can irritate at higher levels we can’t see.
Source: EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 Annex V (permitted preservatives, with limits)
Quick answers
Frequently asked questions
Is Benzalkonium Chloride safe?
Benzalkonium Chloride is permitted in cosmetics but restricted by concentration in the EU, so Klyva flags it. A preservative restricted by concentration in the EU; can irritate at higher levels we can’t see. Source: EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 Annex V (permitted preservatives, with limits).
Does Benzalkonium Chloride clog pores?
Benzalkonium Chloride is not flagged as pore-clogging by Klyva — though absence from the list isn't proof it's non-comedogenic for every skin.
Evidence
- EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 Annex V (permitted preservatives, with limits)