Spectrastat™ is a versatile broad-spectrum preservation system. It is a widely used optimized combination of multifunctional ingredients that allows formulators to create self-preserving formulations.

INCI Name: Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol

Ingredient Origin: Synthetic

Functions: Anti-Microbial Agent, Chelating Agent, Emollient, Preservative

Labeling Claims: Biodegradable, Clean at Sephora, Credo Clean Standard, Formaldehyde releasing substances-free, Halal, MIT-free, Palm Oil-free, Palm free, Paraben-free, Ulta Beauty's Conscious Beauty

Certifications & Compliance: Halal, IECIC (China)

Benefit Claims: Antimicrobial, Chelating, Emolliency, Preservation, Self-Preserving

Knowde Enhanced TDS

Identification & Functionality

Ingredient Origin
Primary Feedstocks
  • Coconut
  • Petrochemical

Features & Benefits

Product Features & Benefits
  • Broad pH range
  • Effective in emulsions, creams and lotions in addition to surfactant-based products such as shower gels, facial cleansers and shampoos
  • Broad spectrum performance
  • Self-preserving from Hurdle Technology approach
  • Free of parabens, formaldehyde donors, MIT, phenoxyethanol, and other traditional preservatives
Micro Summary
  • Controls bacteria (gram +/-), yeast, and mold
  • Pass results with industry standard tests: EP-A, USP51, and PCPC
  • Pass results with recommended use level at pH 4-8: 0.8 - 1.5% (w/w)

Applications & Uses

Bath & Shower Applications
Skin Care Applications
Use Level
1.0 - 1.5% (Cleansers), 1.0 - 1.5% (Wipe juices), 0.8 - 1.5% (O/W emulsion), 0.8 - 1.5% (O/W sunscreens)
Instruction for Use
  • Gently heat to 45 - 50°C
  • Mix well before using
  • Add to water phase (below 80°C) or during cool down phase (~40°C)

Regulatory & Compliance

Certifications & Compliance
Standards & Certifications
  • Biodegradable
  • Clean Beauty Preferred
  • Non-palm Derived
  • China IECIC Listed
  • Halal Certified
  • Vegan & Cruelty-free
  • Kosher Compliant
  • ChemFORWARD SAFER

Technical Details & Test Data

Science Behind
  • This alternative preservation system employs the Hurdle Technology approach, utilizing a combination of multifunctional ingredients to create a hostile environment for microbial growth.
  • Spectrastat™ includes the following multifunctional components to create a complete broad spectrum preservation system:
  1. Caprylhydroxamic Acid: A 100% natural organic acid and chelating agent that prevents the growth of yeast and mold in formulation. Unlike most organic acids used in preservation, caprylhydroxamic acid remains undissociated at neutral pH.
  2. Caprylyl Glycol: A skin conditioning agent that prevents the growth of bacteria in formulation
  3. Glycerin: A 100% natural humectant that acts as a carrier for ease of formulation. Glycerin also reduces water activity for preservation effects.