The cosmetics industry is undergoing a transition from traditional single function preservatives towards multifunctional ingredients that support product safety while enhancing formulation performance and sensory attributes. Microcare^® Emollient HGD is a multifunctional cosmetic ingredient designed to combine antimicrobial efficacy, antioxidant protection, emolliency and skin hydration enhancement within a single formulation tool. This study evaluates the performance of Microcare^® Emollient HGD across a broad range of cosmetic systems, including emulsions, aqueous formulations, surfactant systems and wipes.

The product is composed of hydroxyacetophenone combined with glycol based multifunctional components, providing broad spectrum antimicrobial activity while improving skin feel and formulation stability. Instrumental testing demonstrated significant reductions in tackiness and improvements in spreadability, alongside measurable increases in skin moisturisation. Microbiological challenge testing confirmed effectiveness against bacteria, yeasts and moulds across different pH ranges and formulation types. Toxicological evaluation using an in vitro human corneal model indicated a non irritant profile.

These findings support the role of multifunctional emollient systems as effective tools for modern cosmetic preservation strategies, enabling simplified formulations, improved sensoriality, and robust microbiological stability.