Methoxyethanol
A cosmetic ingredient used as solvent, viscosity controlling in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl EtherEthanol, 2-Methoxy-Ethylene glycol methyl etherEthylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether
What does it do?
Methoxyethanol is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
-
Solvent
dissolves other ingredients into a uniform liquid phase
-
Viscosity controlling
adjusts the thickness or flow of a formulation
EU regulatory status
This ingredient is banned in the European Union.
Methoxyethanol is listed under Annex II of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 (entry 665CMR1b), making it prohibited in cosmetic products placed on the EU market.
Classification: (Reprotoxic 1B)
Frequently asked questions
What is Methoxyethanol?
Methoxyethanol is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl EtherEthanol, 2-Methoxy-Ethylene glycol methyl etherEthylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether
Is Methoxyethanol allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
No. Methoxyethanol is banned for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Annex II of Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Methoxyethanol do in cosmetic products?
Methoxyethanol is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: solvent, viscosity controlling.
What is the CAS number of Methoxyethanol?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Methoxyethanol is 109-86-4.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/07/2020