Geogard Ultra Preservative Formulating Guidelines & Safety

Geogard Ultra is a natural broad spectrum preservative the combines two organic acids that work together to provide long-lasting, effective protection from the growth of bacteria and fungi.

This preservative also adds a bit of extra moisturization to products making it a great preservative for creams and lotions. This preservative can be used in a variety of skincare products.

If you’re looking for broad spectrum preservative, check out the guidelines below to see if this is the one for you!

Geogard Ultra Quick Facts

Geogard Ultra is also known as:

NeoDefend, Gluconolactone SB

Geogard Ultra INCI:

Gluconolactone & Sodium Benzoate

COSMOS and ECOCERT Standards:

Geodgard Ultra is COSMOS and ECOCERT approved.

Geogard Ultra Ingredients:

Sodium Benzoate and Gluconolactone

Geogard Ultra Preservation Activity:

The two ingredients, sodium benzoate, and gluconolactone work together to provide broad-spectrum protection. It slowly releases gluconic acid over time, controlling the growth of bacteria and fungi.

Is Geogard Ultra Water Soluble?

Geogard Ultra is water-soluble.

PH Compatibility:

Geogard Ultra can be used with pH levels 3-6.

Recommended Usage Levels:

Geogard Ultra has a recommended usage level of 0.75-2.0%

What is Geogard Ultra?

Geogard Ultra is a powdered preservative with two ingredients that work together to control the growth of bacteria and fungi.

This preservative contains two organic acids that don’t do much by themselves, but when combined, work very effectively to preserve your skincare products.

It is compatible with a wide range of products and is fairly easy to use, making it a great natural preservative to help extend your products’ life.

Geogard Ultra protects your skincare products from growth of bacteria and fungi.

Is Geogard Ultra Safe?

Geogard Ultra is generally safe; it is easy on the skin and is often used in baby skincare products. It has an excellent safety profile and has a wide range of global regulatory acceptance.

Is Geogard Ultra Natural?

Geogard Ultra is a natural preservative that contains two organic acids. This preservative is also non-GMO.

It is a preservative that meets ECOCERT standards. It can be used in natural and organic products.

Geogard Ultra Uses

Geogard Ultra can be used in a wide variety of products such as:

And much more! It is a very gentle preservative that can be used in products where gentleness is needed.

How to Use Geogard Ultra Preservative in Formulations

Geogard Ultra is a fairly easy to use preservative. It works best when used in formulations with a pH of 3-6.

It has a recommended use of 0.75-2.0% and can be added to a formulation at room or elevated temperatures.

To maximize the pH stability of the final formulation, it may be necessary to use a citrate buffer and adjust the pH:

Dose the final product with the required level of Geogard Ultra® along with a 1.5x amount of sodium citrate. So, a 2% dose of Geogard Ultra® should be accompanied by 3% sodium citrate

Mix thoroughly to ensure all solids have dissolved and adjust the pH of the formulation to 7.00-7.25 with 30% sodium hydroxide

Finally, adjust the pH to desired final product pH (pH 5.4–5.5 is ideal) with dilute sodium hydroxide or citric acid solution
- From Overview of Natural Preservatives

For most skincare products, you want a PH of 5-5.5. This can be adjusted using a pH modifier like Sodium bicarbonate or Citric acid.

Geogard Ultra Warnings

There is concern that Sodium Benzoate, if combined with L-Ascorbic Acid may form Benzene, which is a known carcinogen.

Ascorbic acid and bezoates on their own, doesn't always lead to the formation of benzene. It does require additional conditions such as heat, ultraviolet light and metallic ions in the formula.

Because their is still potential of benzene forming, it is recommended that you DO NOT use Geogard Ultra with L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C). That's why we chose an alternative preservative for our DIY Vitamin C Serum, Dermosoft 1388 Eco.

It is always recommended to perform a patch test when using new skincare products after the preservative has been mixed into the product at the recommended usage level.

If you have any concerns about working with Geogard Ultra, call the manufacturer for clarification.

Where to Buy Geogard Ultra/Neodefend Preservative

NeoDefend | Lotion Crafter

Photo Credit: lotioncrafter.com

Lotion Crafter offers a wide variety of ingredients for all of your formulating needs. They offer carriers oils, preservatives, exfoliants, anti-aging ingredients, butters and so much more. I order a lot of my supplies from Lotion Crafter. Lotion Crafter offers local & International shipping.

Geogard Ultra | Formulator Sample Shop

Photo Credit: www.formulatorsampleshop.com

Formulator Sample Shop carries a wide range of formulating and skincare ingredients including carrier oils, butters, preservatives, and more. You are able to purchase the exact quantities that you need, and if there is something you need that you don’t see on their website, just contact them! They do offer International Shipping as well.