Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Butylene Glycol?
Butylene glycol is a commonly used ingredient that plays multiple roles in cosmetics, including as a humectant, texture enhancer, solvent, and penetration booster. Research indicates butylene glycol not only helps raise water content in skin (aka hydration) but may also contribute to decreasing roughness on the surface of skin (depending on how it’s combined in the formula). While not known as a preservative in and of itself, some of butylene glycol’s properties can help boost a formula’s stability against microorganisms that may harm skin’s surface.
As a raw material, butlyene glycol is a clear and viscous liquid. It is similar to propylene glycol but has a lighter texture. It is used in a wide range of concentrations, with reports of up to 50%, although many suppliers cap it at 30%. The minimum amount tends to hover around 0.5%, in which case it’s typically part of a blend with plant extracts and/or preservatives.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review board has evaluated several toxicology tests and other research concerning butylene glycol over the years and has determined it is safe within the wide concentration range currently used in cosmetics products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has even determined that butylene glycol is safe as a food additive.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed March 2021, ePublication [https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/butylene-glycol/]
-
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Code of Federal Regulations, Accessed March 2021, ePublication [https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-B/part-172]
-
International Journal of Toxicology, May 2011, pages 5S-16S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1091581811400636]
-
Skin Research and Technology, November 2007, pages 417-24 [https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1600-0846.2007.00244.x]
-
Journal of the American College of Toxicology, September 1985, pages 223-248 [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.3109/10915818509078692]
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Bovine Dermal Fibroblast Conditioned Media
A cell-derived ingredient designed to support skin hydration and conditioning
Brassica Campestris Sprout Extract
A plant extract that helps skin retain moisture and maintain its natural barrier
Brown Rice Vinegar
A fermented ingredient that hydrates and conditions the skin
C12-13 Alkyl Glyceryl Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate
A lightweight humectant that delivers hydration without heaviness
Calcium PCA
Key component of skin’s natural moisturising factor As a skin care ingredient, this mineral electrolyte helps replenish skin’s barrier
Calophyllum Tacamahaca Seed Extract
A plant-derived humectant that draws moisture into skin and supports hydration
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.