This invention relates to antimicrobial systems comprising a cationic preservative and its use as a cosmetic and/or dermatological composition.The ethyl ester of the lauramide of the arginine monohydrochloride, hereafter named LAE, can be used for the protection against the growth of microorganisms. The chemical structure of LAE is described in the following formula:LAE is particularly suitable to be used as activity enhancer of traditional antimicrobials in deodorants and oral care preparations.LAE is used in combination with antimicrobials such as chlorhexidine salts and/or hexetidine and/or cetylpyridinium salts. The antimicrobial activity of the combination of LAE with these antimicrobials in such preparations is higher than the activity displayed by each of the components used alone.
