• Powerful antimicrobial and antiseptic agent
• Used in acne treatments, mouthwashes, and hair bleaches
• Effective at low concentrations for skin applications
• Also used for sanitizing tools and cosmetic surfaces
• Breaks down into oxygen and water — minimal residue

Hydrogen Peroxide – Powerful Antimicrobial & Oxidizing Agent for Cosmetic and Cleaning Formulas

 Hydrogen Peroxide (H₂O₂) is a potent oxidizing agent widely used in personal care, disinfection, and cosmetic processing. At cosmetic-grade concentrations (typically 3% to 6%), it’s used for hair bleaching, acne control, skin lightening, and as a mild antiseptic. It works by releasing oxygen when it comes in contact with skin or other surfaces, effectively killing bacteria and breaking down pigments or organic matter. In higher concentrations, it is used in technical cleaning and formulation processes. It must always be handled with caution due to its oxidative nature.

INCI Name: Hydrogen Peroxide

CAS Number: 7722-84-1

Solubility: Fully soluble in water and alcohol

Add Phase: Water phase (diluted before use)

pH Stability: Active in acidic to neutral pH (3–7)

Processing Temperature: Below 40°C (to avoid degradation)

Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid

Odor: Mildly sharp

Molecular Formula: H₂O₂

Molecular Weight: 34.01 g/mol

Flash Point: Non-flammable, but may enhance combustion

Density: ~1.01 g/cm³ (at 3% solution)

Chemical Type: Inorganic peroxide

Functional Groups: Peroxide

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Acne gels, hair bleach, skin whitening, oral care, wound treatment

• Usage Rate: 1% – 6% depending on application
• Phase: Water phase; use diluted
• Ideal For: Hair bleach, acne solutions, mouthwash, sanitizers

🧴 Always neutralize or dilute Hydrogen Peroxide in skincare formulas. Combine with glycerin or soothing actives (like aloe vera or panthenol) to reduce irritation in leave-on products.

✔️ Suitable for oily, acne-prone, or blemish-prone skin in low %

❗ Not recommended for dry or sensitive skin at full strength

❗ May cause irritation if not properly diluted or neutralized

1. Acne Spot Treatment

Use 2% Hydrogen Peroxide with salicylic acid for targeted acne formulas.

2. Hair Bleaching Cream

Combine with ammonia or bleaching powders for controlled lightening in creams.

3. Skin Lightening Mask (Patch Use)

Formulate a 1.5–2% base for targeted hyperpigmentation treatment with caution.

4. Oral Rinse

Use at 1–1.5% for dental brightening or mouthwash under professional guidance.

5. Surface Sanitizing Spray

Use 3–6% Hydrogen Peroxide solution to clean lab tools and cosmetic surfaces.

Serums
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Too harsh for direct facial use.



Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Only in specialized applications (bleaching, acne).



Toners
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Spot or oily skin toners only.



Face Masks
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Use cautiously in rinse-off masks.



Cleansers
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Can be used in acne foaming cleansers.



Hair Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Used in bleaching preparations.



Deodorants
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Used in foot or underarm sprays.



Eye Creams
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Avoid near eyes.



Shampoos
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Use in scalp detox or lightening products.



Soaps
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Useful for whitening or antibacterial bars.



Conditioners
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – In bleach-treating conditioners only.



Lip Balms
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Do not use in lip care.



Body Butters
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟧⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Only for specialty bleaching butters.



Ointments
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Ideal for disinfecting wound ointments.

Q1: Is Hydrogen Peroxide safe for skin?

A1: Yes, at 1–3% concentrations. Higher levels must be used under professional guidance.

Q2: Can it be used for acne?

A2: Yes! It’s bactericidal and effective in acne spot treatments.

Q3: Is it a preservative?

A3: Not directly. It can sterilize, but is not a long-term preservative in formulations.