2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol, also known as Bronopol, is a white or almost white crystalline powder used as a preservative in cosmetics, personal care products, and pharmaceuticals. Its use is based on the broad bactericidal effect of its active ingredient against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including the main spoilage microbes, the aerobic bacteria Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, Enterobacter, and Bacillus spp.
2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol is one of the most cost-efficient ways of achieving effective preservation. Bronopol is included in the list of approved preservatives with a maximum addition of 0.1 % (EC Directive 76/768/EEC, Annex VI, Part 1), listed under CTFA, TSCA, and EINECS. It complies with the requirements of British Pharmacopoeia 2001.
To achieve cost-efficient and effective preservation, 2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol can be combined with different preservatives, such as phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, and parabens. Typical dose rates vary from 100 - 500 ppm, with the most common dosage level being 100 - 200 ppm
In general, Bronopol should be incorporated into cosmetics dissolved in a polar solvent by stirring towards the end of the manufacturing process. Bronopol can also be used pre-dissolved in a solubility promoter or surfactant which is intended to be included as a component of the cosmetic preparation. Temperatures above 40 °C should be avoided. Compatibility with the finished product and the effectiveness of the preservation standard in the finished product must always be thoroughly tested before use.Related ingredients
