[Nisin, a potential preservative for topical preparations]

The lantibiotic compound nisin has a bacterial effect on gram positive bacteria and was investigated for the possible use as a preservative in topical formulations. For this reason, its minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined in different types of ointments. Beside its effect on gram positive bacteria it had also a bactericidal activity on gram negative bacteria in concentrations of 0.06% (W/W). Within the first month there was no detectable reduction of nisin activity in different dermatological preparations. We conclude from these results that the combination of nisin with fungicidal substances represents a possible alternative to well known preservatives.