What is "BUTYLENE GLYCOL" and what does it do?

Role: HUMECTANT/SOLVENT

Family: GLYCOL

Comedogenic index: 0

Butylene glycol has several functions as a skincare ingredient.

It can be petrochemical or biosourced, resulting from the fermentation of sugar molecules extracted from various plants.

Although butylene glycol remains the least irritating of the glycols, in rare cases it can cause mild skin irritation.

Solvent
In a cosmetic formula, the addition of a solvent facilitates the dispersion of other substances (pigments, colorants) and/or enhances the stability of the final product.

Viscosity control agent
Depending on the rate at which it is incorporated into cosmetic formulas, butylene glycol can reduce the viscosity of skin care products, making them more fluid and easier to apply.

Humectant
Butylene glycol captures water molecules and ensures a good level of moisture in cosmetic formulas, preventing them from drying out. What's more, once applied to the skin, it attracts water molecules and maintains skin hydration levels.

Masking agent
Butylene glycol has the ability to mask or attenuate the odor of another compound.

Formula stability
Although Butylene Glycol is not primarily a preservative, some of its properties can help reinforce formula stability by preventing the growth of micro-organisms that could damage the skin.

Ingredient characteristics

Butylene Glycol is a clear, viscous liquid substance, sometimes referred to as butane-1,3-diol. It is similar to propylene glycol, but has a lighter texture. It is used in a wide range of concentrations, reportedly up to 50 %.

Safety in Cosmetics and Food

Butylene Glycol has been evaluated by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review board through several toxicology tests and other research over the years. It has been determined to be safe in the wide range of concentrations currently used in cosmetic products.

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