In the world of natural skincare, it’s completely understandable that people want to know exactly what they’re putting on their skin. With more conversations emerging around preservatives, many are beginning to wonder whether “preservative-free” equals safer.

But the truth is simple:

Thoughtfully chosen preservatives are essential for keeping water & hydrosol-based skincare fresh, effective and safe.

And the preservative systems we use at Charlie & I are globally recognised, EcoCert-approved and exceptionally gentle.

Why Preservatives Are Essential in Skincare:

Any product that contains water - creams, mists, serums, gels, floral waters - creates an environment where microbes naturally want to grow. Without a preservative, a product can quickly become contaminated with bacteria, mould or yeast.

A safe preservative system protects your skin by:

1. Preventing microbial growth

A preserved product stays clean and safe from contamination from the first use to the last.

2. Maintaining freshness naturally

Preservatives keep the aroma, colour and texture stable without compromising the formula’s purity.

3. Supporting product performance

Unpreserved skincare degrades quickly, reducing the effectiveness of the active ingredients you rely on.

4. Ensuring real-world safety

Warm bathrooms, finger dipping and repeated opening of packaging all introduce microorganisms. A preservative system ensures the product stays safe in everyday use.

Our EcoCert-Approved, Nature-Compatible Preservatives:

We only use preservative systems that meet strict international standards for natural cosmetics. They are biodegradable, globally recognised for safety and exceptionally gentle on skin.

Geogard® ECT

A blend of benzyl alcohol, salicylic acid, glycerin and sorbic acid.

• EcoCert & COSMOS approved

• Fully biodegradable

• Suitable for sensitive skin

• Provides broad-spectrum protection

• Used at very low, safe concentrations. This is one of the most trusted preservative systems in natural skincare and used in most of our water-based products.

Dehydroacetic Acid & Potassium Sorbate

A gentle, broad-spectrum pair commonly used in natural skincare — and even food preservation.

• EcoCert approved

• Naturally inspired

• Globally recognised for safety

• Low-toxicity and biodegradable

We use this combination in two of our rinse off products our Geranium Ylang Ylang Cleansing Cream & our Pink Lotus & Rose Facial Polish where a lighter preservative system suits the formulation structure.

Non-Toxic and Free From Common Concerns.

Every preservative we use is:

✔ Paraben-free

✔ Phthalate-free

✔ Formaldehyde-free

✔ Petrochemical-free

✔ Non-toxic

✔ Suitable for natural formulations

✔ Aligned with clean beauty standards

We never use harsh, endocrine-disrupting or controversial preservatives.

Safety Backed by Science

All preservative systems we choose:

• Are extensively safety-tested

• Meet global cosmetic regulatory requirements

• Are used at very low, safe levels

• Support the stability and integrity of the formula

• Are suitable for long-term skin contact.

Clean, natural skincare isn’t about removing preservatives — it’s about choosing the right ones.

The Bottom Line

A safely preserved natural formula is far better for your skin than an unpreserved one. Our EcoCert-approved ingredients ensure your skincare remains fresh, clean, pure and effective from the day you open it to the very last pump.

If you ever have questions about ingredients or formulation choices, we’re always here to share more.