Germall Plus Explained: How Preservative - Water Soluble PF Works in Cosmetic Formulation

If you are new to cosmetic formulation, Germall Plus is one of the preservative names you will hear very early.

Many makers search for terms like "Germall Plus preservative," "Germall Plus alternative," or "best preservative for lotions," because they want something that works reliably without being overly complicated.

Preservative - Water Soluble PF, sold by Natural Bulk Supplies, is equivalent to Germall Plus in composition and function. This article explains how this preservative works, why it is so widely used, and how to use it correctly in real cosmetic formulas.

This guide is written in plain language but with the depth of knowledge you need to feel confident when working with this preservative system.

What Is Germall Plus

Germall Plus is a broad-spectrum cosmetic preservative system designed to protect products against bacteria, yeast, and mold. It is widely used in water-based products and emulsions because it offers strong protection at very low use levels.

The INCI for Germall Plus is propylene glycol, diazolidinyl urea, and iodopropynyl butylcarbamate. These ingredients work together to stop microbial growth across a wide range of cosmetic products.

Preservative - Water Soluble PF follows this same preservation system and performance profile.

Why Germall Plus Is So Popular With Makers

One reason Germall Plus is popular is because it is forgiving. When used correctly, it performs consistently across many different formulas.

It works in lotions, creams, conditioners, serums, masks, and other water based products. It does not require extremely tight pH control, which makes it easier for beginners to use.

Because it is effective at low percentages, it has minimal impact on texture, scent, and skin feel.

Is Germall Plus Broad Spectrum

Yes. Germall Plus is considered a true broad-spectrum preservative.

It provides protection against:

• Bacteria, including gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria
• Yeast, which commonly affect botanical heavy formulas
• Mold, which is a common problem in jar packaging and humid environments

This broad coverage is one reason it is often recommended as a starter preservative.

pH Range for Germall Plus

Germall Plus works across a relatively wide pH range, generally from pH 3 to pH 8. This makes it easier to use than many organic acid based preservatives.

While it is more forgiving, pH testing is still important. Botanical extracts and certain actives can slowly shift pH over time, which is why stability testing matters.

How and When to Add Germall Plus

Germall Plus is heat sensitive and should be added during the cool down phase of formulation.

A common mistake is adding it while the product is still very hot. High heat can reduce preservative effectiveness.

Once the batch has cooled to a safe temperature, add the preservative and mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Solubility and Mixing Tips

Germall Plus is water soluble and easy to incorporate into water phases and emulsions.

Even though it dissolves easily, thorough mixing is still important. Uneven distribution can leave parts of the product unprotected.

Always mix for several minutes after adding the preservative to ensure uniform coverage.

Typical Use Levels

Germall Plus is effective at low use levels, typically around 0.1 to 0.5 percent, depending on the formulation and supplier guidance.

Using more than recommended does not improve preservation and can increase the risk of irritation. Always follow the recommended usage rate for the preservative system you are using.

Products That Work Well With Germall Plus

Germall Plus is commonly used in:

• Lotions and creams
• Conditioners and hair masks
• Serums and emulsions
• Water based masks
• Botanical and protein containing formulas

It is not suitable for use in aerosol products and should be evaluated carefully for certain leave on products intended for children.

Packaging Considerations

Packaging affects how well any preservative performs.

Pump bottles and airless containers work very well with Germall Plus because they reduce contamination during use.

Wide mouth jars increase contamination risk, but Germall Plus is strong enough to perform well when good manufacturing practices are followed.

Common Mistakes When Using Germall Plus

• Adding it at too high a temperature
• Skipping pH testing entirely
• Poor mixing or short mixing time
• Using dirty tools or containers
• Assuming the preservative will compensate for poor manufacturing practices

Germall Plus is reliable, but it still needs to be used correctly.

Is Germall Plus Natural or Naturally Compliant

Germall Plus is a conventional cosmetic preservative. It is not considered natural or naturally compliant by most certification standards.

Many makers choose Germall Plus because of its strong performance and safety record, especially when learning formulation fundamentals.

Do You Still Need Testing With Germall Plus

Yes. Even with a reliable preservative system, testing is important if you plan to sell products.

Stability testing helps ensure the product holds its texture and pH over time. Microbial and challenge testing confirm that the preservative works in your specific formula and packaging.

How Germall Plus Fits Into a Preservation Strategy

Germall Plus works best as part of a complete preservation approach. This includes clean manufacturing practices, appropriate packaging, correct pH, and proper mixing.

When these factors work together, Germall Plus provides strong and dependable protection for cosmetic products.

Final Thoughts

Germall Plus has remained popular for many years because it works. It is forgiving, effective, and well suited for a wide range of cosmetic products.

For many makers, Preservative - Water Soluble PF is an excellent choice when learning how to preserve lotions, creams, and other water based formulations safely.

If you want to learn how Germall Plus compares to other preservative systems, you can return to our complete guide to cosmetic preservatives for a full overview.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Germall Plus used for? 

Germall Plus is used to preserve water based products like lotions, creams, conditioners, and emulsified serums by helping control bacteria, yeast, and mold.

When do I add Germall Plus to a formula? 

Germall Plus is typically added during cool down after the formula has cooled from the heated phase. This helps protect preservative performance.

Is Germall Plus beginner friendly? 

Yes. Many makers consider Germall Plus beginner friendly because it is effective at low use levels and works across a broad pH range when used correctly.

Does Germall Plus work in jars? 

It can work in jars, but jars increase contamination risk. Pump bottles and airless packaging reduce contamination and improve preservative success.