INCI name

PROPYLENE GLYCOL

Propylene glycol

Humectant Fragrance Solvent Viscosity controlling Skin conditioning – humectant Skin conditioning – miscellaneousreviewed

A solvent and humectant.

What it is

Propylene glycol (1,2-propanediol) is a small synthetic glycol. It dissolves other ingredients, attracts water and helps formulas stay smooth in cold and heat.

Where it is used

Found in moisturisers, serums, cleansers, deodorants and hair products.

Limits of interpretation

The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.

It is a different substance from propanediol (1,3-propanediol), despite the similar name.

Functions

Humectant: Retaining and/or preserving the moisture in a product during use.
Fragrance: Imparting an odour or taste. Creating a perceivable pleasant smell and/or masking a bad smell.
Solvent: Dissolving other components of cosmetics. Solvents are usually liquids (aqueous and nonaqueous).
Viscosity controlling: Increasing or decreasing the viscosity (thickness) of cosmetics.
Skin conditioning – humectant: Increasing the water content of the top layers of the skin. Humectants are primarily hygroscopic agents drawing moisture from the surrounding air.
Skin conditioning – miscellaneous: Enhancing the appearance of dry and/or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness.

EU regulation

This ingredient is not listed in the annexes of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 in the CosIng data.

Products with this ingredient (3496)

Check a full ingredient list