ABSTRACT
The term ‘‘antibacterial agent’’ is largely used to qualify chemical agents that are included in cosmetics or household products to provide them either with a specific bactericidal or bacteriostatic activity during usage. The second function of antibacterial chemicals is to protect the product during its life by providing a preservative efficacy against microbial insults. A particular chemical agent can be used as an active ingredient in antibacterial product or as a preservative to protect the formula from microbial contamination. Taking into account that not only bacteria but also fungi or yeast can be concerned, to cover all germs simultaneously the word ‘‘antimicrobial’’ will be used.
