12 Myths & Misconceptions About Preservatives

FURTHER READING
humblebeeandme...
Why Use a Preservative?
personalcaretru...
Why Cosmetics Need Preservatives
personalcaretru...
#humblebeeandme #stubbornlyDIY #DIY
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[@HopePetunias]

Thank you Marie! This is very important right now - there's a lot of misinformation fueled by fear of "chemicals" (as though chemicals don't exist in nature).

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thanks for watching! And I totally agree-"chemical" isn't a scary word!

[@sarahdw93]

UH chemicals and toxins. "I don't like putting chemicals in my hair" "your body is full of toxins" I'm pretty sure that water is a chemical, and if my body was full of toxins... I WOULD BE DEAD.

[@sarahdw93]

It's the same as "natural". You know what's natural? Arsenic. So are mosquitoes (and the diseases they carry), and bacteria (the good and the bad kind), and poisonous mushrooms...

[@HopePetunias]

sarahdw93 It's crazy the kind of nonsense folks are spewing. When you stop and think about it, it's completely senseless...

[@shellos8]

Great video. I make all kinds of skin care products too and ALWAYS use a broad spectrum preservative in water based products or products such as sugar scrubs that are used in the shower. My favorite preservative is Liquid Germall Plus. It's so easy to use and you only need to use a small amount ( .5% )to be effective. The amount of bad/dangerous information being spread by people online, is horrifying. You are a breath of fresh air in a world where so many people are denying FACTS. Good job. :)

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thanks, Michelle! I'm definitely with you on the LGP; it's practically foolproof, which is great for a fool like me ;) I do hope most of the bad info is just ignorance rather than malice, but wilful ignorance and malice can be easily confused for one another :/

[@mayyjayy8984]

Michelle Abbott how can I convert 5% of Liquid Germall Plus into ml? Also how would I know how much to put in 8oz of an oil mix that I make? Thank you for helping

[@thedrunkengardenernb]

@@mayyjayy8984 easiest to calculater oz to g, then multiply g amount by .08 ..

[@thomasknouff7544]

So true

[@r-32siskafitriana92]

Can you tell me about how long (expired) the product will stay long with germall plus?

[@snowwhitebeautyful]

I really hate it how some people refuse to use preservatives, as if they were sth. bad. They're absolutely necessary and inevitable.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Preach!

[@deemcintyre3518]

Gonna check out your blog and site. So glad I ran across your videos. They are educational and comprehensive. I was so excited about DIY's items, I'm in the middle of buying butters, oils and essential oils and fragrances. Then I see one of your videos and I'm like dead stop. Although the products will be just for me, I refuse to go in blind. Thank you much. Huge fan here!!

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Welcome! I'm so glad you're getting into DIY with a mind for safety-you'll be so glad you did :D Happy making!

[@BriseisMusic]

This takes me back to my Pinterest boards. I also thought vitamin E was a preservative and even thought mixing zinc into my lotion would make a sunscreen!

[@josie9306]

Marie you're the best thank you so much for this video. Your good info is so so helpful and wonderful.

[@Queenread82]

Thank you for the common sense. I definitely face palmed, “Oh Duh! Of course stuff spoils! Why didn’t I think of that?”

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

No worries-thanks for watching! :)

[@helenhabel1773]

So glad I found you and especially this video. I had no idea.

[@brushonnalaw]

Ummmm, excuse me ... but I actually really believe you. The other day, I got it in my head that I wanted to make my own soap. That just spiraled out of control and the first video I came across of your’s was about how to make lotion. Yo, I enjoyed it so much. Like too much, just because I do ... I think people are cool. Days later, I realize that I may be onto something so I am still learning and today, I wanted to learn about preservatives ... 4 videos and 37 minutes later and POW, we meet again. Just wanted to thank you for being so informative and so freaking genuine, YO!!!! I freaking suck at KZbin and social media, but I know I am supposed to subscribe ... wait ... I don’t even think you asked for a subscription!!! (I did it anyway) Sheesh you’re cool. No because that was supposed to come at the beginning ... that’s the formula for KZbin, the ask for the sub, like, AND for us to ring a bell ... you rebel!!!! You’re like a rebel and not a rebel at the same tim ... nvm ... you get the picture (I don’t even write comments!) ... you’re cool and I am thankful for the information you shared!!!! Thanks again, Sis!!!

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thank you so much! I'm so thrilled to hear you're having fun making things and have learned some helpful things from my channel :) Don't forget to check out my blog (humblebeeandme.com)-I've been blogging for over 8.5 years while I’ve only been on KZbin for about 4, so there is TONS more content on the blog! The FAQ (www.humblebeeandme.com/faq/) & Humblebee & Me DIY Encyclopedia (www.humblebeeandme.com/diy-encyclopedia/) are especially helpful 😄 Happy making!

[@minithomas137]

Thanks TONS. You are such a great help for beginners like me. God bless you.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

You're very welcome! Thanks for watching :)

[@crimsonspice72]

WOW!!!! I'm beyond excited about finding your channel😄

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

YAY! Don't forget to check out my blog (humblebeeandme.com)-I've been blogging for over 7.5 years while I’ve only been on KZbin for about 3, so there is TONS more content on the blog!

[@nathaliealbanez1533]

Thank you so much for all of your informations! Im just starting to do some diy for fun and didn't know the importance of preservative. Your blog is AMAZING! 😍

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Happy to help! Happy making :D

[@lindatrucha]

Thanx for the links I hope you will continue posting videos like that!! I find you are so reliable compare to some people with diy's

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thanks! I definitely will :) And don't forget to check out my blog (humblebeeandme.com/)-I've been blogging for over 5 years while I haven't even been on KZbin for one, so there is TONS more content on the blog!

[@DawnEdwards6267]

Also, grape seed extract is NOT a preservative!

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

SO true, oh my goodness. Its been proven over and over that the "preservative" powers it has are from the preservatives that preserve it, and ironically those are often things like parabens that people are trying to avoid by using GSE :P

[@user-vv9bl7fr8k]

Grapefruit seed extract is sometimes used instead

[@emilyprestigiacomo9606]

Humblebee & Me can you point me to the studies that have proven grapefruit seed extract is an ineffective preservative?

[@moniquehenderson156]

@@emilyprestigiacomo9606 This link at 14.00 minutes talks about this. Kenna is a biochemist. She knows. kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIW9YmiOnpqEl7s

[@emilyprestigiacomo9606]

Monique Henderson I watched this video and I heard what she said, yes she is a biochemist but she makes no references to any studies conducted to back up what she’s saying.

[@Rosyscription]

This was wonderful! And this is exactly why I've been hesitant to dive head first into diy skincare. I've been doing a lot of reading and love your site and videos. Bookmarking this (and your reading list) for later... and to share with doubters in the future.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thank you so much! Hopefully it helps you feel a bit more confident, knowing you'll be able to avoid some of the common pitfalls :) Happy making!

[@DrMohaAli1]

Thank you very much. i have learn many things from your blog and youtube videos. For example when it comes to preservatives, i always confused. but right now I understood why just one products has different preservatives instead just ONE preservative only? . this is because different preservatives have different action/purpose r like prevent bacteria, some others prevent mold/fungus or rancidity. Therefore it is necessary to use different preservatives .

[@kathysuleski5835]

Hello Marie! In making a magnesium cream with 50% distilled water and 50% magnesium chloride, is a preservative still necessary?Other ingredients include butters e wax and oils.Thanks!

[@annabellak.2864]

I like this summary. I see a lot of diy recipes without preservatives, and they say it's good for 2-3 weeks in the fridge. But they also make like a one-year-large batch, it's crazy!!! Why???? 😯 I would love to see/read about another hygiene topic too. Tips on how to clean different containers, what's better not to reuse - which you give hints about in some videos, but a round up would be good. And also, I read you need to sterilize your tools and containers with alcohol every time and also not to use the same tools for food to avoid contamination. How do you do this in practice? I'm sorry if you already have something about these, I didn't find. Have a nice day! 🙂

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thanks for the feedback and suggestions! I think I've covered some of these topics in assorted Q&A videos, though I'm not sure which at this point. You might also like this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2PEgnura9yHl9E. I'll keep in mind doing a more complete video on general processes :) Happy making!

[@BiancaAnne]

I read your blog about preservatives but didn’t see anything about leucidal sf max and AMTicide Coconut for more natural preservatives (I know their shelf life is way shorter than the more synthetic preservatives and it’s more for personal use than to sell the products). Have you had any experience in using these? Any recommendations or comments about it?

[@sarahinthesun12]

I'm so glad I ran into this video and your KZbin Channel. I am very new to the DIY world but wanted to jump in and had no idea about preservatives! I will be purchasing your book today! I do have a question though, I notice you've said you like Liquid Germall Plus as a preservative but I've seen some great reviews about Optiphen Plus (since it's paraben and formaldehyde free). I'd like to know your opinion on it and why you choose Liquid Germall Plus. Thanks so much for taking time to do these videos!

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Welcome! I use LGP because it's effective against gram positive and gram negative bacteria as well as mould, and it has a very wide effective pH range (3-8, but some chemists state up to 10). Optiphen Plus is less effective against mould and can destabilize emulsions. You can learn more here: www.makingskincare.com/preservatives/.

[@Thenoobestgirl]

Your eyes remind me of Emilia Clarke's eyes. I think it's the shape. In other words - you've got pretty eyes lol. Also thank you for this video. It's really informative!

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thank you so much! She does have really pretty eyes 😄 And thanks for watching!

[@oldweatheredbarnsoapco.1661]

Please share what you know about Lactobacillus Ferment as a preservative

[@AndyMagoulick]

The videos are extremely informative. You are very knowledgeable.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Glad you like them! Don't forget to check out my blog (humblebeeandme.com) as well-I've been blogging since 2011 while I’ve only been on KZbin since about 2016, so there are a lot more formulations on the blog. The blog is also where my totally free ingredient encyclopedia and FAQ live, and they're both packed with tons of super-helpful information ❤️ Happy making!

[@emiliagarcez5474]

Hey, Marie! So I just got your book from Amazon (really cool and exciting!) and I took some notes in the section about preservatives so here I am. I've read that Germall Plus is 60% of propylene glycol, which I found out it's a component we should avoid in cosmetics and skin and hair products. So I started searching about the other preservatives and I found that Phenonip, Germaben and Geogard ECT are NOT paraben-free. I felt a little disapointed cause I got into diy cosmetics in order to run away from these kind of substance. But then, I've read that Optiphen Plus is paraben- and formaldehyd-free! I have to confess that I have no idea how this one works in the recipe, just that we should use a concentration of 0,75-1,5%. Have you ever used this one in your concoctions? If you have any comments about my searching I'll be glad to hear them!

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Hey! So, it sounds like you have found some pretty... fear-mongery resources (likely the EWG?). I've found Cosmetics Info to be a much better database style resource. Here's their entry on propylene glycol: www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/propylene-glycol. "It is also interesting to note that in the human body, propylene glycol is metabolized into lactic acid, which occurs naturally when muscles are exercised." At 0.5% usage rate, that 0.3% of your product would be propylene glycol, which is approved "at concentrations as high as 98% in topical drugs and 92% in oral solutions". Parabens are also nowhere near as awful and terrifying as many sources would have you believe. Colin (a professional cosmetic chemist in the UK) has an excellent and well-balanced series on them on his blog: colinsbeautypages.co.uk/the-truth-about-parabens-vii-conclusion-more-work-needs-to-be-done-to-prove-that-parabens-are-indeed-safe/ (refer to the comments as well, there's good discussion there). You are certainly welcome to avoid them if you wish, but I'd encourage you to do more reading into them. I've not worked with Optiphen Plus. You can learn more here (www.makingskincare.com/preservatives/), but do generally be aware that you must test and adjust the pH of everything you make if you wish to use it as it has a much narrower effective pH range than liquid germall plus, as well as having more ingredient conflicts. Good luck and happy making!

[@emiliagarcez5474]

Thanks, Marie! Actually I've seen these infos about propylene glycol all over the internet, both in english and portuguese (I'm brazilian!), and since in Brazil this kind of diy beauty products are pretty recent and the only recipes available on internet were food makeup and skin care products or nice-quality-diy-makeup-from-courses-I-can't-afford, I was a bit concerned about this subject. Thank you for all the information given and for your patience!

[@Erica-yr3gf]

You’re brilliant Marie. I love your Chanel. Thank you.💕👍🌎❤️🌿🙏🏻💕

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thank you so much!

[@sunflower-ic6hc]

So when using a preservative, what is the approximate shelf life, of say a lotion or shampoo, made with oil & water? Thank you so much for explaining this. I'm just starting out and was nervous about using them, but you have changed my way of thinking. Thanks for keeping me & my family safe?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Hey! You'll find the answer to your question in my FAQ on my website at humblebeeandme.com/faq/ 😊Happy making!

[@tivo148]

I was a sceptic too until I read why you need to preserve your products. Last thing I would want is to catch any skin infections, little micro yuckies or diseases such as staphylococcus, my gosh its scary.

[@misclaudiarene6752]

what did people do before preservatives? it never occurred to people that cancer didn't come into play until we started using preservatives..

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

I highly recommend reading The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer by Siddhartha Mukherjee. Cancer has been around far longer than preservatives have.

[@brandimills585]

Every time I ask somewhere, I'm told you dont need a preservative for an anhydrous body butter, but I know many people do apply these right out of the shower and I cant guarantee that their hands will be dry (as many people prefer to do it while their skin is still damp). I also saw a video that said when shipping in the heat, the jar can sweat, which can introduce a little water. Rather than put a label warning against moisture, I wanted to just include a preservative. I'm having such a hard time figuring out which one to use though. My body butter will be 44% butters (mango, shea, cocoa); 45% oils (grapeseed, jojoba, coconut & a squeeze of vitamin E); 8% arrowroot powder & 3% fragrance. I'm all confused by the PH levels & stuff. Can I use Optiphen Plus? or Germall Plus? I want to make sure we don't get any mold or fungus.

[@bluebinstein]

I have the same question about using preservatives in this kind of body butter too. Did you ever find the answer?

[@sadiaabdullahi9644]

@humblebeeandme…are you able to answer this question. I’m a new maker and by product was an anhydrous whipped lotion butter

[@brandimills585]

​@@bluebinsteinno - but I just used some Optiphen Plus

[@reinamacaren-a4132]

Yeahhh vitamin E is the big time myth. Many KZbin videos say vitamin E is their preservative. Google has a list of natural preservatives and it seems a lil shady; lemon juice, salt, grapefruit extract to name a few🙄 I just made some shea butter last night for family and I put a 6mos expiration. Now I'm scared because I made then added aloe vera juice and put it in my shea butter. I used Honey as a preservative and put it in a big mitt jar🥶🤔 I'm just gonna have to take a formulation class because I want to start a hair and body butter business. Did I mention that I suck at chemistry?😂 Great video. New sub😘

[@padswaggle]

aw, the links in the description aren't working anymore. :(

[@ChrissyTina]

can you pleaaaase make a video about different prevers and their shelf life. Also what they work best in.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

I definitely don't feel qualified to make such a video, but here's a great reference for you :) www.makingskincare.com/preservatives/

[@jennisonr]

the link is not available now

[@cynnaratregarth2009]

Fabulous especially as you're learning which preservatives to use when. 🙌🏻👍🏻😁

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thanks, Cyn!

[@mjjuana]

Very informative and well explained. Thank you. I use only hard butters ( shea, cocoa, mango etc), oils (almond, jojoba,castor etc), and essential oils to make body butter creams... no water...in a spotless clean area. Do I still need any kind of preservatives? If not how long will these last? Does it help to put them in the freezer? Thank you in advance ..pat

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

No water, no preservative! For info on shelf life, read this: www.humblebeeandme.com/faqs/long-will-______-last-shelf-life/ :)

[@shariemoran2002]

I don’t see the discrimination box below.

[@blueghost4121]

What's the difference between fragrance oil and essential oil? I have been reading labels more often and have read this.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

I'm going to do a big ol' video on this... thinking Friday. Anywho, the quick gist of it is that essential oils are sourced directly from plant matter (squeezed, distilled, etc.) while fragrance oils are synthesized from natural and synthetic ingredients. Both, however, can be labelled as "fragrance". Stay tuned for the video! Imma talk a lot haha.

[@gnomebeard407]

Roland Jacobs so glad you will be making a video about This! trying to mimic a favorite beard balm and almost impossible because ingredients say "fragrance". do u know any reputable synthetic fragrance oil companies?

[@josephine881000]

Hey I like your channel. If you make a body butter only with oils (Coconut oil, Shea butter, Almond oil, oil based essential oil like lavender) WITHOUT water - do you need a preservative? Thank you for your help.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Nope; no water, no preservative! I've got lots of FAQs on this, like this one: www.humblebeeandme.com/faqs/what-preservative-should-i-use-how-much-of-it-should-i-add/ :)

[@josephine881000]

Thank you! Really enjoy your channel. Do more what you are doing - you will be more successful!

[@marymurphycreates]

Fabulous and extremely well presented.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thank you!

[@naya911]

Awesome video, very educational. Am making body butter, sugar scrub and black soap for sale, although they don’t contain water,Am considering adding preservatives to avoid contamination Since they will be used in the shower especially the black soap gel and sugar scrub. What do you think?

[@consciouslypure2176]

That is so interesting! Thank you! You’re so great to listen to! I do have one thought on this... if water based products/food/anything can’t be stored for more than a few days without preservatives, what about kombucha? I make it at home and apart from good bacteria, it contains water and sugar and it stands at room temperature for over 2-3 weeks and it changes as it’s supposed to do, gets acidic etc but how come it doesn’t get bad, but rather the opposite, the good bacteria multiplies and causes it to be really healthy and makes us feel great? Does the good bacteria “preserve” it?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

From what I understand, yes, the good bacteria play a role, as does the acidity-that's why you need to include some starter liquid from the previous, already acidic batch :) I'm sure you know it's also possible for kombucha to mold if the batch is contaminated (I've read flavoured teas, among other things, can cause this), so I assume the relative lack of diversity of matter for microbes to consume also plays a role. I'm definitely not a kombucha expert, though!

[@manjuswami6701]

Can you tell about safe preservatives

[@ilariarossi2401]

Hi Marie, your video just probably saved me from so many future mistakes!..I just decided to start making face and body creams for me, my family & friends, and the last thing I want is making them sick! so thank you very much! I'd like to ask you a couple of questions if you don't mind helping me..If I'm not wrong I understood that no water =no need for preservative, right? If I make a cream using shea butter, coconut oil, pomegranate oil, olive oil (or other seed oil like sesame oil etc) and essential oils, would it work without preservatives? how such a lotion would last in your opinion? also, can it be stored out of the fridge? ...one more thing ...I would like to buy some pure aloe vera gel; if I'm going to use it to make a cream with other oils what is the kind of preservative (and the quantity per gram of cream) you suggest I should put ? (also..will the preservatives not be already in the aloe vera gel ?) and can I just put some alcohol in it? Thank you very much for your tips!!!

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

I've got some FAQs for you :) www.humblebeeandme.com/faqs/aloe-vera-juice-aloe-vera-gel-thing/ www.humblebeeandme.com/faqs/long-will-______-last-shelf-life/ www.humblebeeandme.com/faqs/need-add-preservative-recipe-long-will-last/ www.humblebeeandme.com/faqs/what-preservative-should-i-use-how-much-of-it-should-i-add/ www.humblebeeandme.com/faqs/common-myths-misconceptions-preservatives/

[@ilariarossi2401]

Thank you very much!

[@maisalreemchannel751]

Great video! What about hydrosol how could l increase shelf life of a homemade hydrosol naturally? Thanks in advance 🌸

[@kiml1159]

Thank you! Very Informative.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thanks for watching! :D

[@deemaldi7420]

Very informative video, thank you for sharing! I have 2 questions... 1- So anything made with water in it, need a preservative? 2- would emulsifying wax and potassium sorbate be considered a preservative?

[@halaal-horany7901]

Hi, the link in the website does not work! it seems all the website is not active anymore... do you know if the moved to another domain name?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Personal Care Truth seems to have vanished 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@halaal-horany7901]

@@HumblebeeAndMe what a waste! I really wanted to read the article you mentioned.. I wonder why they closed down :(

[@Handmadepurities]

Would I need to use a preservative if I'm using aloe vera gel and not water?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Yes, absolutely. Aloe vera is more challenging to preserve than plain water. Please look it up in the Humblebee & Me DIY Encyclopedia (www.humblebeeandme.com/diy-encyclopedia/) and read through the Preservatives section of the FAQ (www.humblebeeandme.com/faq/) to learn more!

[@EspadasYCopas]

what are you thoughts about geogard ultra? i use it and i like a lot,it requires a buffer though. inci D-Glucono-1,5 Lactone ,Sodium Benzoate ,Calcium Gluconate. and what about the combo sorbate-benzoate? i just need my cosmetics last 3-4 months max.

[@tonijackson6529]

This information is a goldmine! omg, thank you.😵😁👏👏👏👍💜

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thanks, Toni! Don't forget to check out my blog (humblebeeandme.com/)-I've been blogging for over 5 years while I haven't even been on KZbin for one, so there is TONS more content on the blog!

[@jetaungooden2221]

I realize I'm late.... But what if the product is produced in grain alcohol.... Does that count as a preservative ?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

It depends on how strong the alcohol is, how much was used, and the overall formulation. It CAN contribute to creating products that are self preserving, but it's not a guarantee :)

[@boboarmor6746]

How much perservative in grams should I add for my soap?

[@hannahn.342]

Hi! I just found your video and I know the "no water- no preservative"-rule but I always use my moisturizer on my wet face (with wet fingers) and I would like to use a preservative in my completely oil-based moisturizer because I am a very panicky person and don't want nasties to grow in it. How do I do this and which ones do you recommend?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Phenonip would likely be a good choice; you can learn more here: www.makingskincare.com/preservatives/. You could also scoop out the moisturizer with a popsicle stick so you don't risk adding any water to it :)

[@alanricketts9660]

I have asked the same question on a little Bill videos hoping to get an answer are skin care products Cosmetics or not thank you

[@boboarmor6746]

Can I use vegetables glycerin as a perservative or is it count as a natural perservative? Will it help defend from building bacteria and mold?

[@spyryal]

Glycerin is no preservative, it's a humectant to keep things moist.

[@brittanybrandywine6629]

If I add liquid germall plus should I stop listing my products as all natural? I will be adding preservative but I don't want to lie about my products! Thank you

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Liquid Germall™ Plus definitely isn't natural, so it would not be truthful to label your products as "all natural" if you use it. There are good natural preservative options, though! Check out the video I shared today :)

[@angielilliank.1109]

Very helpful. Thanks so much!!!!!!!

[@surbhigupta8399]

When do you exactly put a preservative in your concoction or every preservative should be put at a different time?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

All the ones I know about are added at the very end, after the product has cooled :)

[@ieshamitchell9083]

Thank you so much for this info.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sarahlou5777]

Wow this is a really helfull video thank you! Can I ask when making cucumber toner with acv or rose water will any Preservative stop the cucumber liquid going bad? I was wondering the same about things like rice water, honey face wash and other food like skin care products. I want to make them for myself but would be great not to have to do it every few days :) please help 😊

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

It's hard to say; those things are more prone to spoilage, to be sure, but there are so many variables it's impossible to say if it is technically possible or not. I, personally, would not recommend it, especially in a home setting.

[@kindnessadio9551]

Can I use vitamin E as a preservative for Pro mixing cream?,pls reply

[@DrZeko]

Hi! Thank you for your great videos! What is your opinion on the Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate as a preservative agent for the water solution of hyaluronic acid? The alternative is Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate mixed with Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract. It that enough to make safe DYI cosmetics?

[@eva-janemiddleton434]

Yaaayyyy. I love your videos. I wish I had found your videos earlier. So far ive only made for myself but was getting ready to make soaps and maybe a base for shampoo and lotions. Can you tell me if we need preservatives for soaps if they are melt and pour. I take it is already protected but I'm unsure. Basically I'm a newby. I make candles and wax melts with confidence but need to get more info before I go to making gifts etc. Thank you

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Hey! You really should ask your supplier about the need for a preservative in the specific M&P base you are using. Some are true soaps, which are self-preserving due to their high pH, but some are syndet bars or blended syndet bars, and for those it's harder to say, and if the pH remains high but not high enough to self-preserve, preservative selection can be tricky. Your supplier should know these things.

[@GabrielleEther]

I came here bc I’m trying to find out if they are necessary or not. Today I saw a product that I only use if I have a rash so I haven’t used it much. I’ve had this product for over a year and it has never molded. I was like oh let me see what preservative is in this and I see that it had no preservative. I googled it and it said they didn’t have any preservatives in their products. It’s a gel so I’m wondering is that why it don’t need a preservative???

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

There are several things they could be doing to employ hurdle technology to make it self preserving. Check out this post (www.botanicalformulations.com/blog/preserving-botanical-formulations-naturally-part-1) and its part 2 to learn more!

[@rebeccafionacornel6558]

Marie what are parabins? (Sorry if I spelt that term wrong, but I am terrible at spelling)

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Parabens are a class of preservatives; very effective ones, at that. Colin has an excellent series on them here: colinsbeautypages.co.uk/?s=parabens I'm going to delete your other comment on this exact topic-no need to ask twice :)

[@Heriicka]

Just another questiona Marie. I've read it a book that it would be possible to extend a preservative "life", for instance of Cosgard that is of 3months by adding citric acid. Do u know that to be true? And if so, to what extent or with how much % of the acid..? Many thanks

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

I think that would be a great big quagmire of "it depends", unfortunately.

[@joshwacharles1018]

You're a legend and a great teacher...It's been very informative...Thanks a lot for educating us...Can you suggest me a good preservative which can be used in water baSed serum and oil based serum...Thank you...Lots of love from india❤

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thank you so much! Check out the preservatives section in the FAQ (www.humblebeeandme.com/faq/) for your answer :)

[@domenicdapice7218]

Hi Marie , I've been watching your videos lately and must say i find them quite interesting and very informative. I am kind of new to DIY cosmetics since I have decided to stop purchasing lotions creams and soap from pharmacies. So started off making my own serums. I have Leucidal liquid which i ordered from Saffire Blue Ontario. After watching this video i have looked up on one of your pages to calculate percentage . I am giving you an example here and let me know if I am correct. Leucidal liquid 2% . My product will be 50 milliters that would be 50 x 2 = 100 . 100 ÷100 = 1. 1milliliter is the equivalent of 20 drops. Is this correct ?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Hey Domenic! You math is correct, but you MUST do this by weight, not millilitres, and that includes measuring the final preservative-no drops! You will need a scale :)

[@poiipoii1311]

The 2 links don't work. Would you recommend Germaben II for body scrubs and body butters? Also does it work when you add it to cold products?

[@oldweatheredbarnsoapco.1661]

I love your videos

[@aishatabubakar700]

Hi I made a lotion and after a few days, it jxt popped out of the jar/container..so do know what must have gone wrong??? I'm thinking that its because of the preservative... I used phenylexanol

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Yeah, that could indicate your preservative was not sufficient-it sounds like there may be some sort of microbial action happening that is resulting in the production of some sort of gas.

[@makeupbybhavikathawani5804]

fantabulous video love it😍 i make homemade soaps and serums So I want to ask if adding phenoxy ethanol only 1% and 2% to my products will it work as a preservative because phenoxy ethanol is a preservatives for cosmetics so please help or will you prefer me adding methyl paraben ? please do reply

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Please read up on your options here: makingskincare.com/preservatives/.

[@DStew-io6jx]

When using a hydrosol like basil or witch hazel, do you need to add a preservative?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Yes. Please read through the preservatives section of the FAQ (www.humblebeeandme.com/faq/)!

[@reecew_23]

Hello love your videos thank you! Wondering if you've come across a preservative that doesn't have a smell? I'm finding that Optiphen plus and preservative ECO have this rubber glove kind of smell :( I'm making sugar scrubs and without fail they stink when I use preservatives :( Whats the least amount of preservative I can use? The product label says .75-1.5% but wondering your thoughts on this? Thank you!

[@gnomebeard407]

What is a recommended preservative that can handle 170 degrees F? I am making a clay pomade and need everything to be poured into the container while it's still liquid. Is Liquid Germal Plus a good preservative to use? The pomade is very similar to making a lotion. Water part and oil part. I also have Phenonip.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Phenonip is ok up to 200°F, and Optiphen Plus is good to 176°C. If your emulsifier includes polysorbate 80 you'll want to use optiphen plus :)

[@rosettawhite3896]

I make sugar scrubs and I sell them to my coworkers on my job, should I use a preservative in it even though it doesn't contain water. Most people use scrubs when they are in the bath or shower so they're hands are wet and water may enter the container.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

You should, yes. Read the note at the end of this formula: www.humblebeeandme.com/mango-mango-whipped-sugar-scrub/ :)

[@anjalimulchandani9166]

Hi ! I want to start of by saying that I am glad that I watched this video. Thank you so much for this video and sharing all the amazing and super informative links. I just have a question to ask. I just made a body scrub which contains Rose petals,oats,coconut oil,sugar and a little bit of honey. Does that need a preservative too? Please do reply. :) Thanks

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Hey! Personally, what I would do with that scrub would be drop the honey (or use dried honey instead), and ensure it never got wet by scooping out a set amount to use in the tub and tossing any leftovers (that way you aren't dipping wet hands into the master batch), and then you wouldn't need a preservative. As written, I would recommend including one. Also, I'm assuming your rose petals are professionally and completely dried :)

[@kathkwilts]

Anjali Atlani Oats can and will absorb water from the air and then they become one of the most perishable items that I can think of... they will start to ferment and sour within hours...

[@luciamamta]

what about when making fermented products? what are your thoughts on that, are preservatives necessary then?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

As a home crafter I would not be confident making fermented skincare products. The bacterial action in them would be very hard to maintain while still creating something safe and shelf stable.

[@emilymiddleton2374]

Do you need to use a preservative in a bug spray? It's mostly witch hazel with a small amount of water plus glycerine and two EOs. I was told I need to use poly 20 in it. It has a spray lid so it doesn't touch the body.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Yes, definitely. The Poly 20 will be your solubilizer to allow the EOs to mix with the water part, but you'll also need a preservative to stop gross stuff from growing :)

[@poonamlal9857]

I love love love your channel 🙌🏼

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thank you!

[@anne8743]

Do we need a preservative when making very small batches (up to week) and kept in the fridge?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Probably not, but gosh... that's a lot of making and likely a lot of waste. You'd be looking at ~5g batches of things (which is pretty hard for most things but nearly impossible for emulsions) in order to not be throwing out huge amounts of product.

[@armaansalim]

Can I use phenoxyethanol as my preservative in my skincare, makeup and hair care products , love from india

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

For some things, yes, but definitely not everything. humblebeeandme.com/preservatives/ for more info!

[@diablominero]

I'd try not to eat liquid germall plus even if the chili looked fine after a month.

[@sasi868]

Thank you for the video! But I can't open the link :(

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

It seems like there's something wrong with the website-it's not mine, so I really can't control that. Hopefully the site comes back online.

[@MaryJ-pb8ys]

great thanks for your help!

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@mackenzierodgers9830]

Great video ! Ive just started making my own products (lotions, face products, and household cleansers). I want to use a preservative but im getting confused on which ones to use... Ive been seeing Vitamin E for things that dont have water or some into contact with water (i.e. Lip Balm). As far as the preservative for face creams, body scrubs, household cleansers with water, I dont know which paraben-free preservative to use OR how much!? is there an equation to figure out how much? and what parben-free preservative would you recommend? Also, if I were to boil the water and then use it, would that solve the problem? or would i still need a preservative.. Thanks for any information!

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

I'd recommend Liquid Germall Plus; it's pretty darn foolproof! I've got more info and links to a calculator here: www.humblebeeandme.com/faqs/what-preservative-should-i-use-how-much-of-it-should-i-add/. And no, boiling water doesn't negate the need for a preservative in cosmetics any more than boiling water would give a soup an indefinite shelf life :)

[@mackenzierodgers9830]

Humblebee & Me thank you for the recommendation ! Can this preservative be used in scrubs and oil based butters ?

[@josie9306]

@@mackenzierodgers9830 from everything I've read vitamin e is an antioxidant and it can't take the place of a preservative if you're making something that includes water as an ingredient and you want it to stay good longer than a few weeks.

[@Heriicka]

I would like to ask u a rather silly question...after u had a preservative ( for instance cosgard) u can right away start using yr lotion/ face cream wtv?? Tk u

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Yup!

[@Heriicka]

@@HumblebeeAndMe Tk u!!

[@CC-cl8iq]

Greetings all the way from South Africa, love your site and making my own lotions. Do you have any suggestions for more natural preservatives as the ones you mention I can not find in my country or I have to ship in making it 10x as expensive due to exchange rate .

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

You can find a list of many preservatives & their traits here: humblebeeandme.com/preservatives/. I'm afraid the complexities of global availability make it impossible to guarantee the things I have access to in Canada are available to you :(

[@PhanyPacker]

What about milk powders? or dehydrated fruit/veggie powders? Does that still fall into the category of going bad faster? Could you make it's container on the smaller side and label the shelf life as like 2 months or something? or is that still too long?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

If there's no water most of those things will be fine-as long as they stay dry. You'll find more information in my FAQ on my website at humblebeeandme.com/faq/ 😊Happy making!

[@jamesslocum3068]

So only mixtures that have water as part of the recipe need preservatives? Because I was thinking of starting to make my own beard oils, balms, and butters. Thanks.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Yes. You can give this a read for more information: www.makingskincare.com/preservatives/

[@Burak-ls5yd]

Hi. I want to ask a question. Is dangerous contamination always shows signs like molds, odour change, texture change etc. or is it being dangerous even there is no sign at all. Like food poisoning bacteria.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Just like food poisoning it's entirely possible to have undetectable contamination.

[@victoryfruin]

Hi Marie, thank you for your videos, they are so informative. I have a question tho, i want to make a diy avocado oil, does it need a preservative? I hope you reply, thank you ! Keep up the good work.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thanks for watching! Avocado oil isn't a thing you'll make yourself-it's a stand alone ingredient, like olive oil or canola oil. It does not need a preservative on its own as it does not contain any water :)

[@victoryfruin]

@@HumblebeeAndMe Okay thank you ❤

[@sophiagreene5812]

Do you like the preservative Leucidal SF complete? I have seen it used before and was wondering how you feel about it.

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

I'm afraid I've never worked with it so I couldn't say :)

[@dianavelasquez4345]

Thank you so much for this 💕

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Thanks for watching!

[@jordanchang1]

hi, thanks for this video. I have a question with the usage of preservative. I made liquid soap using olive+coconut oil, thickened with salt until it has syrup-like texture. I forgot to add preservative, and up to 1 month (now as I wrote this) the soap is still fine. Did salt do the trick here, or plant-oil-based liquid soap generally has months of shelf life?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Hey! You'll find the answer to your question in my FAQ on my website at humblebeeandme.com/faq/ 😊Happy making!

[@linaballerina4410]

my conditioner has water and no preservatives! the ingredients are: aqua, coconut oil, palm oil, pine extract, alfalfa extract, chamomile extract, echincea purpurea flower extract, nettle leaf extract, clover extract, horse tail extract, bees wax, olive oil, linseed oil flax, pumpkin seed oil, sunflower seed oil, apple cider vinegar, cedarwood atlas oil

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

That's... not good at all. I hope you didn't purchase this from anybody. With all those botanical extracts this conditioner would be a festering mess of bacterial overgrowth in a few short days. There's also no emulsifier in this, so I have no idea how it's staying together.

[@alyssajones2549]

Apple cider vinegar is a natural preservative

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

No it isn’t. It is self preserving, and in high enough concentrations vinegar can be used to pickle food, which is a type of preserve, but simply including it in something does not preserve it. Think about salt. Salt has been used for hundreds of years to preserve meat, but if you make a pot of chili and it has a teaspoon or two of salt in it, that chili is not going to last at room temperature for months on end. ACV is the same.

[@alyssajones2549]

I don't see what you're trying to say. Your reply sounded contradicting

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

OK, think about it like this. Karen makes $100k a year, and does quite well for herself. She is financially comfortable and stable. This is pure vinegar. Now, in the world Karen lives in, for every child you have, your income reduces proportionately, but your expenses go up. So, Karen has one child-she now makes 50k, and her expenses have gone up, but she can still support the child and herself. We can call this making pickles or salted meat. The ratios there obviously aren't 1:1, but that's the general idea. Karen has two children. She now makes 33.3k, and things are getting tighter. Fast-forward to Karen having 9 children. She now earns 10k/year and cannot support 9 children and herself. This is the sort of situation most people are referring to when they say vinegar, salt, sugar, or honey is a natural preservative even though it's used in a very small amount. It is not potent enough to do anything when diluted that much AND presented with that much of a preservation challenge. In their pure or near-pure forms they are self preserving and can preserve foods, but the quantities of salt or vinegar or sugar required to preserve food are very high-I'm sure you've had food that contained those ingredients go mouldy in your fridge before. So, basically, on their own those ingredients are self preserving, and there are a handful of situations in which, when used at a high enough concentration, they can preserve other things. Those situations are never applicable in end-use skin care. This is a good resource to learn more: makingskincare.com/preservatives/

[@AmberDuffer]

Do I need to add preservatives when pressing micas into an eyeshadow?The only liquids I will be using are silicones, oils, and alcohol.. Do I need them when pressing glitters?(using glycerin, aloe & alcohol)

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

No water, no preservative. Aloe DEFINITELY requires a preservative, silicone, oils, and alcohol do not.

[@elenishandmade2398]

Marie hi! Homemade liquid soap such as castille soap needs a preservative? And if no cause i see most recipes dont use it why not? Greetings from Greece...

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Hey! You'll find the answer to your question in my FAQ on my website at humblebeeandme.com/faq/ 😊Happy making!

[@elenishandmade2398]

@@HumblebeeAndMe thank you so much...i make products for myself i make my own recipes but i am still in the organic side....but still i love your channel...gives me very good ideas and mostly valuable information...i so much thank you....❤️

[@EMBETTERMENT-EMB]

Would Citric Acid be considered as a Preservative that can be used in lotions?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

No, not at all! Citric acid is used in lotions to adjust the pH.

[@mayyjayy8984]

Hello Marie, I have recently started making my own DIY Hair Oils and was looking into preservatives. From my understanding hair oils don’t need preservatives unless it will come in contact with water or wet hands. My question is, is that information true? If so, will I need to use a preservative for my hair oils since I apply the oil to my (wet hair) with wet hands? Also if I do need to add a preservative how much would you suggest adding to 8oz of hair oil? Thank you for your in depth information! It really answered a lot of my questions. You’ve gained a new subscriber 🤗🤗

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

Hey Meagan! Have you checked out the "preservations" section in the FAQ (www.humblebeeandme.com/faq/)? I tihnk you'll find your answer there!

[@mayyjayy8984]

Humblebee & Me Thank You so much for your response. I read all of your information about preservatives and you have been a BIG help! You’re amazing!

[@queenballucci]

What If I'm just using oils and butters? I got oils like coconut, avocado, grape seed, Shea nut oil, castor oil and vegetable glycerin and I got cocoa and Shea butter. I usually use them straight out the bottle. I got my oils 1st and did mix a little bit of them together just because I got excited lol. I do use it every day bcuz I have very dry skin and hair but now I'm nervous... should I throw it away?

[@HumblebeeAndMe]

If there's no water involved, you don't need a preservative. Vegetable glycerin, however, is water soluble and is quite a strong humectant, so in addition to not incorporating with oils without an emulsifier (or at least a carefully designed formula), it can compromise your concoction. So-if it's 100% oils and butters, it's fine, but if you have vegetable glycerin in there I'd chuck it. I recommend checking out the preservatives section in my FAQ for more info :) www.humblebeeandme.com/faq/