Natural origin. Broad-spectrum protection. Performance that goes well beyond preservation.
Preservation has always been one of the trickiest parts of cosmetic formulation, and it is getting harder. Consumers want products that are natural, gentle and kind to the planet, yet those products still need robust protection against bacteria, yeasts and moulds. Many traditional preservatives simply cannot tick every box.
That is where multifunctional natural preservatives are changing the game. Instead of offering microbial control alone, these next-generation ingredients bring added performance to the formula, from better skin feel and improved stability to scalp health and sensory benefits, all from a single, naturally derived molecule.
Aminat®, based on Ethyl Lauroyl Arginate (LAE), is a standout example. It combines high antimicrobial efficacy, broad compatibility, excellent skin tolerance and genuine multifunctional activity across personal care categories.
What makes Aminat® unique?
Aminat® is built from three familiar, naturally occurring components:
- Arginine – a non-essential amino acid widely present in food proteins
- Lauric acid – a fatty acid found in coconut and palm kernel oil
- Ethanol – produced through sugar fermentation
These building blocks give Aminat® a natural origin index of 1, and its synthesis follows the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry for a low environmental footprint. The molecule is biodegradable, non-toxic and non-irritating, and it is metabolised into compounds the body already produces, which makes it safe for both cosmetic and food applications.
Fast, broad-spectrum antimicrobial action
Aminat® acts rapidly against bacteria, yeasts and moulds. Its efficacy comes from a smart dual mechanism:
- Cationic charge – enables strong interaction with microbial cell membranes
- Hydrophobic chain – allows penetration into the cytoplasm
The result is fast kill times, even at low use levels, making Aminat® suitable for a wide range of formulation types, from emulsions to aqueous systems.
Multifunctional benefits beyond preservation
Aminat® is not only a preservative. It also performs as an active ingredient in several personal care categories.
1. Hair and scalp care (anti-dandruff)
Aminat® shows strong activity against Malassezia furfur, outperforming traditional benchmarks. Formulators also gain:
- Improved hair smoothness
- High mildness
- No environmental toxicity
This makes it ideal for anti-dandruff shampoos, scalp treatments and leave-on tonics.
2. Deodorants
Aminat® demonstrates excellent efficacy against Corynebacterium xerosis, with:
- Faster action than traditional deodorant actives
- 24-hour long-lasting effect
- High skin tolerance
It supports both natural and conventional deodorant formats, including roll-ons, sticks and sprays.
3. Oral care
Aminat® is a standout active for oral hygiene. It:
- Does not stain teeth, unlike some traditional actives
- Reduces gingivitis and bleeding
- Prevents biofilm (plaque) formation by lowering surface energy
- Stops bacterial adhesion to the pellicle
Its rapid action and safety profile make it suitable for toothpaste, mouthwash and gum-care gels.
Formulation applications
Aminat® can be used in:
- Creams, lotions and body milks
- Wet wipes and micellar waters
- Sunscreens
- Shampoos, conditioners and hair treatments
- Soaps and cleansing bars
- Deodorants
- Oral care products
This versatility lets formulators consolidate preservation and activity into a single ingredient.
Formulating with Aminat®: compatibility and grades
Despite being cationic, Aminat® is compatible with anionic emulsifiers, anionic thickeners and anti-dandruff surfactant systems, which opens up opportunities for natural and conventional formulations alike.
Aminat® is available in several grades:
- Aminat‑G – ideal for all-natural formulations, with an excellent ecological profile
- Aminat‑CB – suited to systems where incompatibilities may arise
- Aminat‑CG – optimised for challenging formulations requiring enhanced stability
Certifications and regulatory advantages
Aminat® carries globally recognised certifications: COSMOS, Ecocert, Natrue, Halal, Kosher and RSPO. These make it easier for formulators to support natural, ethical and sustainability claims.
Why formulators choose Aminat®
Aminat® offers a rare combination of benefits:
- Natural origin
- High antimicrobial efficacy
- Multifunctional activity
- Excellent skin and oral tolerance
- Environmental safety
- Broad formulation compatibility
For formulators looking for a modern, green and high-performance preservative, Aminat® is a future-proof solution that aligns with consumer expectations and regulatory trends.
Interested in formulating with Aminat®? Contact the Cosmetic Ingredients team for technical data, samples and formulation support.