Effect of Alternative vs Traditional Preservatives in a Vaginal Moisturizer on Select Vulva Flora
Faculty Mentor Information
Danielle Howard, Artisan Labs
Presentation Date
7-16-2026
Abstract
The female genitalia contain a diverse microbiome composed of over 200 microbial species, with Lactobacillus species representing 90–95% of the microbial community. These bacteria play an essential role in maintaining an acidic environment and preventing the overgrowth of potentially harmful microorganisms. However, the introduction of topical products may disrupt this delicate microbial balance, raising concerns regarding the effects of different preservative systems used in feminine care formulations. This study evaluated the effects of a vaginal moisturizer containing either a traditional preservative, an alternative preservative, or no preservative on select vulvar-associated microorganisms, including Lactobacillus gasseri, Gardnerella vaginalis, and Candida albicans. The antimicrobial effects of each formulation were assessed using a modified disk diffusion test, in which microbial lawns were exposed to product samples and zones of inhibition were measured. Results showed that preservative type influenced microbial growth differently across organisms. The alternative preservative produced the greatest inhibition of L. gasseri and G. vaginalis, while the traditional preservative showed the strongest inhibition of C. albicans. These findings suggest that preservative selection plays an important role in balancing microbiome compatibility and antimicrobial protection, with traditional preservatives demonstrating greater preservation of beneficial Lactobacillus species within this experimental model.
Effect of Alternative vs Traditional Preservatives in a Vaginal Moisturizer on Select Vulva Flora
The female genitalia contain a diverse microbiome composed of over 200 microbial species, with Lactobacillus species representing 90–95% of the microbial community. These bacteria play an essential role in maintaining an acidic environment and preventing the overgrowth of potentially harmful microorganisms. However, the introduction of topical products may disrupt this delicate microbial balance, raising concerns regarding the effects of different preservative systems used in feminine care formulations. This study evaluated the effects of a vaginal moisturizer containing either a traditional preservative, an alternative preservative, or no preservative on select vulvar-associated microorganisms, including Lactobacillus gasseri, Gardnerella vaginalis, and Candida albicans. The antimicrobial effects of each formulation were assessed using a modified disk diffusion test, in which microbial lawns were exposed to product samples and zones of inhibition were measured. Results showed that preservative type influenced microbial growth differently across organisms. The alternative preservative produced the greatest inhibition of L. gasseri and G. vaginalis, while the traditional preservative showed the strongest inhibition of C. albicans. These findings suggest that preservative selection plays an important role in balancing microbiome compatibility and antimicrobial protection, with traditional preservatives demonstrating greater preservation of beneficial Lactobacillus species within this experimental model.