A zinc salt of phenolsulfonic acid, used as an astringent and deodorant and regulated in Annex III.
What it is
Zinc phenolsulfonate is zinc bis(4-hydroxybenzenesulfonate), the zinc salt of phenolsulfonic acid. CosIng lists it as an antimicrobial, astringent and deodorant ingredient. In the EU it is covered by an entry in Annex III (substances subject to restrictions).
Where it is used
Appears on the ingredient lists of a small number of products.
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, which cover deodorants, antiperspirants and astringent lotions and include a warning about eye contact.
Functions
- Antimicrobial
- Preventing and/or slowing down microbial growth.
- Astringent
- Contracting and/or tightening the skin.
- Deodorant
- Reducing and/or eluminating unpleasant odour. Contributing against the formation of malodour on body surfaces.
EU regulation
- Product type
- Deodorants, antiperspirants and astringent lotions
- Maximum concentration
- 6% (as % of anhydrous substance)
- Conditions and warnings
- Avoid contact with eyes
- As of
- 3 November 2026 · (EC) 2009/1223