Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Propanediol?
Propanediol (also known as 1,3-propanediol) is a glycol that can increase the absorption of ingredients (such as salicylic acid) to improve their effectiveness. Additionally, it offers moisturizing properties that can result in a smooth, dewy finish as the formula sets. Propanediol is a considered a safe, well-tolerated ingredient, not likely to cause sensitivity.
Propanediol is a versatile ingredient with additional properties that make it a favorable choice in skin care products, including its ability to boost the effectiveness of a preservative system within a formula. It can also serve as a solvent in a blend of ingredients.
Propanediol can be derived naturally from corn or created synthetically. It is a colorless to pale yellow, viscous (somewhat sticky) liquid and is chemically similar to 1,2-propanediol (propylene glycol).
In June 2018 the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Board reevaluated propanediol’s use in personal care products and concluded that propanediol is safe. For leave-on products it was recorded in up to a 39.9% concentration (for a deodorant) - skin care products generally contain lower amounts than that.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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PubChem Compound Summary, April 2021, ePublication [https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/1_3-Propanediol]
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SpecialChem, Accessed April 2021, ePublication [https://www.specialchem.com/cosmetics/inci-ingredients/propanediol]
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Cosmetic Ingredient Review, June 2018, pages 1-73 [https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/aldiol032018FR.pdf]
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Cosmetics & Toiletries, May 2013, pages 81-86 [https://www.cosmeticsandtoiletries.com/testing/method-process/article/21835183/evaluating-13propanediol-for-potential-skin-effects]
From the Clinic
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These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. Propanediol is the common form.
Related Ingredients
Methylpropanediol
Enhances the absorption of other ingredients
Pinus Palustris Wood Tar
A wood-derived denaturant used to render other ingredients unsuitable for consumption
Poly 1,2-Butanediol-6 Propylene Glycol
A solvent that helps dissolve and deliver other skincare actives effectively
PPG-6
A humectant and solvent that helps formulations blend whilst supporting skin hydration
Purified Water
Purified water is a commonly used solvent, often appearing first
Sodium Polyacrylate
Used as a film-forming agent, stabiliser, thickener, and absorbent in cosmetics | Can absorb 100-1000 times its mass in water
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