- Humectant: Propylene glycol is a humectant, which means it has the ability to attract and retain moisture. In skin care products, it is often used to help keep skin hydrated by preventing water loss.
- Solvent: Propylene glycol is a versatile solvent used to dissolve other substances. This makes it a common ingredient in a variety of formulations, including skin care products, pharmaceuticals, and food.
- Emollients: It has emollient properties, which means it softens and smoothes the skin's surface. This makes it useful in skin care products such as lotions and creams.
- Stabilizer: Propylene glycol is used as a stabilizer in some formulations to help maintain the texture and consistency of the product over time.
- Carriers: Often used as carriers for active ingredients in skin care products, they help deliver these ingredients effectively to the skin.
- Antifreeze: In addition to its use in cosmetics and personal care products, propylene glycol is also known for its use as an antifreeze in a variety of applications, including the automotive industry.
Although propylene glycol is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products at recommended concentrations, some people may be sensitive or allergic to it. Allergic reactions to propylene glycol are rare but may occur, causing skin irritation. If you have a known allergy or concern, it's a good idea to check the product label and do a patch test before using a new skin care or cosmetic product.
It's important to note that propylene glycol should not be confused with ethylene glycol, which is a different compound that can be toxic when ingested. Propylene glycol is much less toxic and is considered safe for topical use if used properly.
