The ingredient narratives reshaping clean beauty.
Propanediol
aka 1,3-propanediol · trimethylene glycol · propylene glycol analogue
A bio-fermented multi-functional humectant and solvent. A more sustainable alternative to petroleum-derived propylene glycol, widely adopted in clean K-beauty and prestige formulations.
- Humectant — water binding in stratum corneum
- Solvent — dissolves hydrophilic actives
- Penetration enhancer at higher concentrations
- Bio-derived (from corn sugars via fermentation)
- COSMOS-certified
- K-beauty toners and essences
- SPF sun serums
- Foundation vehicles
- Brightening serums
- Gel moisturisers
Bio-derived from corn sugar fermentation. Water-soluble; miscible across all cosmetic pH. Effective humectant at 3–10%. Compatible with virtually all cosmetic ingredients.
At very high concentrations (>20%) can cause temporary irritation. At typical cosmetic use levels (1–10%), no established safety concern. Corn-derived — GMO sourcing question for strict natural consumers.
Strongly accepted in clean beauty due to bio-derived fermentation origin and COSMOS certification. Commonly positioned as the clean-beauty alternative to propylene glycol.
The ingredient narratives reshaping clean beauty.
Propanediol
aka 1,3-propanediol · trimethylene glycol · propylene glycol analogue
A bio-fermented multi-functional humectant and solvent. A more sustainable alternative to petroleum-derived propylene glycol, widely adopted in clean K-beauty and prestige formulations.
- Humectant — water binding in stratum corneum
- Solvent — dissolves hydrophilic actives
- Penetration enhancer at higher concentrations
- Bio-derived (from corn sugars via fermentation)
- COSMOS-certified
- K-beauty toners and essences
- SPF sun serums
- Foundation vehicles
- Brightening serums
- Gel moisturisers
Bio-derived from corn sugar fermentation. Water-soluble; miscible across all cosmetic pH. Effective humectant at 3–10%. Compatible with virtually all cosmetic ingredients.
At very high concentrations (>20%) can cause temporary irritation. At typical cosmetic use levels (1–10%), no established safety concern. Corn-derived — GMO sourcing question for strict natural consumers.
Strongly accepted in clean beauty due to bio-derived fermentation origin and COSMOS certification. Commonly positioned as the clean-beauty alternative to propylene glycol.