Snapshot
- Overview
- An antimicrobial preservative that keeps water-based formulas from spoiling.
- Category
- Preservative
- Type
- Preservative
Chlorhexidine Digluconate
Chlorhexidine digluconate is a cationic biguanide salt used in cosmetics and oral-care products for its potent, broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. It's chosen to preserve water-based formulas and support hygiene at low levels under suitable pH ranges.
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Our take
Is Chlorhexidine Digluconate a Good Ingredient?
It's highly effective at low levels, but it offers minimal direct skin benefits and can irritate skin or mucosa, particularly at higher concentrations or on compromised barriers. That mix of modest evidence and some risk keeps it at a Fair rating rather than Good.
What it does
Skin Benefits
Maintains product integrity by suppressing contaminating microbes, extending practical shelf life. In oral-care products, it can reduce odor-causing bacteria; direct cosmetic skin benefits are limited.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
Found in mouthwashes, dental gels, hand washes, and some facial cleansers as a low‑level antimicrobial preservative. Also used in watery toners and gels where cationic preservation is desired.
Before you use it
Safety
May cause irritation, dryness, or contact allergy in some users; stinging is more likely on sensitive or broken skin. In oral‑care formats it can cause temporary taste changes or staining. Discontinue if sensitivity occurs.
Products with Chlorhexidine Digluconate
