We’re pleased to present a range of powerful preservatives and preservative boosters from LANXESS that support broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and also deliver added formulation benefits like emollience, skin conditioning, and improved stability.
From gentle blends for baby care to robust options for rinse-off applications, these high-performing ingredients help formulators meet today’s regulatory, functional, and consumer expectations.
Below are six key preservatives and preservative boosters from the LANXESS portfolio that are now available from HARKE UK & Ireland (joining Neolone® BioG, which we’ve already featured).
Maxario® CAG
Maxario® CAG (Caprylyl glycol) is a multifunctional humectant and emollient that enhances antimicrobial efficacy. With its ability to support broad-spectrum control and moisturising properties, it’s an excellent booster in both leave-on and rinse-off products.
Key benefits:
- Supports bacterial, yeast and mould control
- pH range 3-10
- Low odour
- Suitable for sensitive formulations
Recommended use level: up to 0.2% for leave-on, 0.1-1.0% for rinse-off
Maxario® EHG
Maxario® EHG (Ethylhexylglycerin) is a skin-conditioning booster that improves the efficacy of preservative systems while maintaining a light sensory profile. It is highly versatile and supports both rinse-off and leave-on applications.
Key benefits:
- Broad-spectrum booster for bacteria, yeast and mould
- Functions in pH 3-10
- Low odour and high compatibility
- Miscible with glycols and alcohols
Recommended use level: up to 0.1% for leave-on, 0.1-1.0% for rinse-off
Neolone® BF
Neolone® BF is a 50:50 blend of Benzyl alcohol and Phenoxyethanol that offers robust preservation for a broad range of water-based products, including baby care, colour cosmetics and hair care. The dual active system works across a wide pH range and offers excellent compatibility with most cationic, anionic and non-ionic cosmetic and personal care formulations.
Key benefits:
- Effective against bacteria, yeast and mould
- Suitable for pH 2-10
- High compatibility with most surfactants and emulsion systems
- Clear liquid with mild odour
Recommended use level: 0.2-1.0%
Neolone® CF
Neolone® CF blends Phenoxyethanol with the multifunctional emollient Caprylyl glycol for a preservation system that not only protects but conditions. It is ideal for water-based products requiring both microbial stability and moisturising qualities, such as hair conditioners, body lotions, colour cosmetics and baby-care products.
Key benefits:
- Broad-spectrum protection
- Functional in pH 3-10
- Emollient and humectant properties from Caprylyl glycol
- Clear, odourless liquid
Recommended use level: 0.35-1.0%
Neolone® HF
Neolone® HF is a blend of Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin that provides strong, broad-spectrum efficacy in a blend optimised for rinse-off systems like shampoos and shower gels, with added skin conditioning benefits from the Ethylhexylglycerin.
Key benefits:
- Effective against bacteria, yeast and mould
- Works in pH 3-10
- Skin conditioning and sensory benefits
- Clear, low-odour profile
Recommended use level: 0.35-1.0%
Neolone® PH Max
Neolone® PH Max combines Phenoxyethanol with Pelargonic acid, a naturally derived multi-functional ingredient from sunflower oil. This blend provides broad-spectrum efficacy with additional antioxidant and chelating functions, making it a smart drop-in solution for a wide range of personal care products.
Key benefits:
- Broad-spectrum protection against bacteria, yeast and mould
- Naturally derived acid boosts efficacy and reduces need for synthetic preservatives
- Functional across pH 3-10
- Compatible with both rinse-off and leave-on systems
Recommended use level: 0.5-1.2%
Next Steps
Want to explore how these multifunctional preservatives and preservative boosters can support your next formulation? HARKE UK & Ireland is your partner for LANXESS preservation systems, including Neolone® BioG and those above. Get in touch to request a sample or speak with one of our experts.






