Climbazole

What is Climbazole?

Climbazole is a synthetic chemical compound from the imidazole family, designed as an antifungal agent. Its structure features a chlorophenoxy group attached to an imidazole ring and a dimethylbutanone chain, enabling it to target fungal cell membranes by inhibiting ergosterol biosynthesis, a key component for fungal integrity. In cosmetics, it falls under preservatives and biocides, commonly incorporated into shampoos, conditioners, and other rinse-off hair care items at low concentrations. It functions by curbing the growth of yeasts like Malassezia and bacteria, thereby extending product shelf life and maintaining formula integrity during use. This broad-spectrum activity makes it valuable in water-rich formulations prone to contamination, supporting overall product safety without altering sensory attributes.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 2 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Biocide
Destroys or inhibits harmful organisms to preserve products.
Antimicrobial agent
Helps limit growth of bacteria and other microbes on skin or in the formula; may be used for product protection, odor control, or targeted antimicrobial effects.
Preservative
Protects the product from microbial contamination during storage and use, helping maintain safety, stability, and shelf life.

Benefits

Maintains product freshness by controlling bacterial and fungal growth.

Enhances formula stability for longer shelf life.

Helps prevent microbial-related odor in personal care items.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users of shampoos and conditioners needing microbial protection.
People with known allergies to imidazole compounds.
Individuals with products exposed to humidity or water.
Those experiencing contact dermatitis from antifungals.
Those seeking stable, long-lasting cosmetic formulations.
Individuals with highly sensitive skin prone to irritation.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with score of 2.
  • Deemed safe in cosmetics by regulatory expert panels.

Frequently Asked Questions about Climbazole

What is climbazole used for in cosmetics?

It acts as a biocide, antimicrobial, and preservative to inhibit microbes and preserve product quality.

Is climbazole safe for skin?

Expert panels rate it safe at used concentrations, with low hazard scores.

Does climbazole clog pores?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low pore-clogging potential.