PLDEFRESITJęzyk: polski
INCI name

POLYAMINOPROPYL BIGUANIDE

Polyaminopropyl biguanide (PHMB)

Preservativereviewed

A polymeric biguanide used as a preservative, regulated in Annex V.

What it is

Polyaminopropyl biguanide is the INCI name used for poly(hexamethylene biguanide) hydrochloride, a cationic polymer with repeating biguanide groups, often abbreviated PHMB. CosIng lists it as a preservative. In the EU it is listed in Annex V (allowed preservatives).

Where it is used

Found in cleansers, wet wipes, makeup removers, deodorants and other products that need preservation.

Limits of interpretation

The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.

See the EU regulation section for the applicable limits and conditions. Despite the name, the polymer is built from hexamethylene units, not aminopropyl units.

Functions

Preservative
Exclusively or mainly intended to inhibit the development of micro-organisms in the cosmetic product. All authorised preservatives are substances in the positive list of Annex V to the Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009.

EU regulation

EU · Annex V, entry 28Polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride
Maximum concentration
0.1%
As of
3 November 2026 · (EU) 2019/831

Scientific opinions (SCCS)

Opinions of the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety that mention this ingredient. They assess specific uses and concentrations; read the opinion for its scope.

Products with this ingredient (19)

Check a full ingredient list