Ethylhexylglycerin
INCI: Glycerin
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Glycerin
Skin-softening agent with mild humectant (hydration boosting) properties Multitasks with preservative capabilities to improve formulary stability
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Ethylhexylglycerin?
Ethylhexylglycerin is a synthetic skin-softening agent. Ethylhexylglycerin can also be used as a preservative and carrier/suspending agent that boosts the efficacy of other preservatives such as phenoxyethanol. It has been shown to have mild humectant properties leading to improved skin hydration without a sticky feel.
Ethylhexylglycerin is also popular in deodorant formulas where it has an inhibiting effect on odor-causing bacteria. Antibacterial action is also where it earns its keep as a preservative, but since it isn’t effective against other type of pathogens, it would always be used with more broad-spectrum preservatives.
As a raw material, ethylhexylglycerin is a pale to colorless liquid. It is formed by a condensation reaction between 2-ethyhexanol (an oil-like ingredient) and glycerin.
In 2013, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed ethylhexylglycerin as safe used in up to 8% concentration in rinse-off products and up to 2% in leave-on formulas. Studies regarding sensitization patch tests of 5% ethylhexylglycerin show that reactions to this ingredient are very rare and their occurrence in a broad population is considered low risk.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Ethylhexylglycerin: Preservative and skin conditioning Int J Toxicol, 2018
Frequently Asked Questions
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Ethylhexylglycerin is a variant of Glycerin, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
Found naturally in skin Helps skin retain moisture
Related Ingredients
Glycerin
Found naturally in skin Helps skin retain moisture
Sorbitol
Sorbitol is a type of sugar that can be created
Glyceryl Glucoside
Composed of skin-loving glycerin and glucose A humectant that draws moisture to skin
Glycerol
Is a skin-restoring ingredient, meaning it is found naturally in skin Functions as a humectant, helping skin retain moisture
Glyceryl Behenate
Emollient formed by the combination of glycerin + behenic acid Aids the integration of key ingredients into skin’s surface and imparts a smooth, soft feel
Dimethylol Urea
A preservative system with purifying properties to help maintain product stability
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