active
Butylene Glycol
Ubiquitous multi-functional humectant and solvent appearing extensively in K-beauty essences and gel moisturisers.
Benefits
- Humectant — binds water in stratum corneum
- Solubilises hydrophilic actives
- Improves spreadability and skin feel
- Mild antimicrobial preservation booster
- Compatible with virtually all cosmetic ingredients
Example uses
- K-beauty essences
- Gel moisturisers
- Toners
- Eye serums
- Sheet mask solutions
Mechanism of action
Short-chain aliphatic diol binds water via hydroxyl group hydrogen bonding, reducing TEWL. Reduces activity coefficient of co-dissolved actives improving apparent aqueous solubility and penetration of polar actives. Mild antimicrobial contribution lowers MICs of co-preservatives.
Clinical evidence · High
Extensively characterised with safety data from multiple SCCS assessments.
Effective concentration range
1–10% (humectant); solvent role at any concentration
Formulation notes
Water-soluble across all pH ranges. At concentrations >5% provides meaningful humectant function.
Watchouts
At >15% can cause mild irritation and dryness via osmotic effects. Some clean lists flag it as synthetic though no established health risk.
Stacks with
Controversies & overclaims
No significant safety controversy. Occasional flagging in paleo/ancestral beauty as a synthetic chemical.
Market positioning
Sold as skin-softening hydrator. Humectant function real and well-supported.
Comedogenicity
0 / 5
Sensitisation risk
Low
INCI & aliases
Butylene Glycol
1,3-butanediol · 1,3-butylene glycol
Clean beauty perception
Mixed. Broadly accepted in K-beauty and mainstream. Some brands flag petrochemical synthesis. EWG 1–2. No meaningful safety controversy.
Related ingredients
Graph relationships
Timeline