Propylene Glycol
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: 1, 2-propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol
Functions as a humectant (hydrating ingredient) | Can enhance the delivery of key actives into skin
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
Propylene Glycol products at Skintique
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What Is Propylene Glycol?
Propylene glycol is a humectant (hydrator) that can enhance the delivery of key active ingredients into skin. It also plays a role in keeping formulas from melting in high heat or from freezing in low temps.
Also known as 1,2-propanediol, propylene glycol is used in thousands of personal care products with a proven track record of safety. As a raw material, it is a clear, purified liquid that is produced synthetically.
There are some websites that state propylene glycol is really industrial antifreeze and that it is a strong skin sensitizer. They further point out that the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) on propylene glycol warns users to avoid skin contact. As ominous as this sounds, it’s far from the reality of how propylene glycol is used in cosmetics formulations.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Board and other groups have analyzed the toxicology data and exposure studies concerning topical application of propylene glycol as commonly used in cosmetics. Their conclusion was that it is safe and does not pose a health risk to consumers. Concentrations of up to 73% have been reported with leave-on products; for rinse-off products, higher concentrations are permissible.
Benefits for Your Skin
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed April 2021, ePublication [https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/propylene-glycol/]
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Archives of Dermatological Research, November 2019, pages 337-352 [https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00403-019-02017-5]
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Critical Reviews in Toxicology, April 2013, pages 363-390 [https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3109/10408444.2013.792328]
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International Journal of Toxicology, September-October 2012, pages 245S-260S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1091581812461381]
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Skin Pharmacology and Applied Physiology, 2001, pages 72-81 [https://karger.com/spp/article/14/Suppl.%201/72/383398/Modulation-of-the-Barrier-Function-of-the-Skin]
From the Clinic
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