Why You Won’t Find Phenoxyethanol in Chinook Skincare—and What We Use Instead
At Chinook Skincare, every ingredient is chosen with intention. I don’t follow trends or cut corners; I make decisions based on what’s truly best for your skin, your health, and your peace of mind.
Let’s talk about preservatives.
Phenoxyethanol is used in up to 60% of skincare products. It’s often considered “safe” at concentrations under 1%, but here’s what’s rarely acknowledged: that safety limit is based on isolated exposure—not cumulative, daily use layered across multiple products.
Recent studies have raised concerns about long-term exposure, particularly in leave-on formulas. It’s been linked to skin irritation, allergic reactions, developmental toxicity, and potential endocrine disruption. It also contributes to environmental pollution during manufacturing. While still allowed in many mainstream formulations, some organic certifiers have banned it altogether—and I stand with them.
As someone with sensitive skin and a long history of reacting to medications and synthetic ingredients, I know firsthand how frustrating and confusing it can be. I used to try product after product, not understanding why my skin was inflamed, red, or unsettled—until I started reading ingredient labels more closely. Now, I scan everything with the Yuka app, and it’s a non-negotiable part of my own skincare routine.
If your skin reacts—even to “clean” brands—phenoxyethanol could be part of the problem. It’s so widely used that switching products might not help if you’re unknowingly exposed to the same trigger again and again.
That’s not acceptable to me. And it’s why I went looking for a better alternative.
Chinook Skincare uses a natural preservative made from upcycled banana leaf and trunk extract. It’s a powerful, plant-based antimicrobial that protects the product—while offering skin-soothing and hydrating benefits. No hidden toxins. No hormone disruptors. Just smart, functional skincare that supports your skin’s natural barrier.
Even better? This upcycled ingredient gives new life to what would otherwise be waste—reducing our environmental footprint while adding value to your ritual.
Every Chinook product is Yuka-rated 100/100. That’s not just a number—it’s a reflection of our commitment to safety, transparency, and truly clean formulation.
You deserve to feel confident in what you’re putting on your skin. You deserve skincare that’s as effective as it is safe.
And that’s exactly what you’ll find here.
References
European Chemicals Agency (ECHA): Phenoxyethanol Substance Information – https://echa.europa.eu/substance-information/-/substanceinfo/100.003.332
EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety: Final Opinion on Phenoxyethanol (SCCS/1575/16) – https://ec.europa.eu/health/system/files/2021-02/sccs_o_198_0.pdf
Yuka App — Ingredient and Product Ratings: https://yuka.io/en/
