Propylene Glycol
A cosmetic ingredient used as humectant, skin conditioning, solvent in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Propane-1,2-diol
What does it do?
Propylene Glycol is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Humectant
draws moisture from the air or deeper skin layers to the surface, helping skin retain water
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Skin conditioning
improves the appearance, feel, and condition of skin
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Solvent
dissolves other ingredients into a uniform liquid phase
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Viscosity controlling
adjusts the thickness or flow of a formulation
EU regulatory status
Propylene Glycol is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Propylene Glycol?
Propylene Glycol is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Propane-1,2-diol
Is Propylene Glycol allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Propylene Glycol is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Propylene Glycol do in cosmetic products?
Propylene Glycol is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: humectant, skin conditioning, solvent, viscosity controlling.
What is the CAS number of Propylene Glycol?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Propylene Glycol is 57-55-6.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010