A cosmetic preservative is disclosed which comprises Lonerica sp. extract, a metal chelating agent and ethanol in amounts effective to inhibit microbial growth including bacteria, molds and yeast. The effectiveness may be enhanced by the addition of a phospholipid, ascorbic acid and ascorbic acid salts. Effectiveness against microbial growth is further improved by addition of a combination of 1,2-hexanediol, 1,2 octanediol and tropolone. Specific formulations are provided.
