Butylene Glycol (1,3-Butanediol)

CAS Number:

107-88-0

Chemical / IUPAC Name:

1,3-Butanediol

Molecular Formula:

C4H10O2

Molecular Weight:

90.12 g/mol

Other Names:

1,3-Butylene Glycol, 1,3-Dihydroxybutane, Methyltrimethylene glycol

INCI Name:

Butylene Glycol

Uses:

A colorless, viscous, and hygroscopic organic compound widely used as a humectant and solvent in personal care products. It is valued for its ability to improve product texture and stability.

· Personal Care & Cosmetics: Used as a humectant to retain moisture, a solvent for active ingredients, and a viscosity modifier in creams, lotions, serums, and makeup products.

· Hair Care: Found in conditioners and styling products to provide conditioning and improve spreadability.

· Skincare: A key ingredient in moisturizers, cleansers, and anti-aging formulations for its hydrating properties and light, non-greasy feel.

· Industrial Applications: Used as a chemical intermediate and as a solvent in various industrial processes.

Origin:

Butylene Glycol is a synthetic organic compound typically produced from acetaldehyde via the aldol condensation process. It can also be derived from renewable sources like corn or sugarcane through fermentation and hydrogenation processes.

What does Butylene Glycol do in a formulation?

• Humectant: Attracts and retains moisture in the skin and hair.
• Solvent: Dissolves other ingredients and active compounds.
• Viscosity Controlling Agent: Helps adjust the thickness and flow of formulations.
• Skin Conditioning Agent: Leaves skin feeling soft and smooth.
• Antimicrobial Enhancer: May enhance the efficacy of preservatives.

Safety Profile:

· General Hazard Classification: Considered safe for use in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies including the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel.

· Irritation & Sensitization: Generally regarded as non-irritating and non-sensitizing to skin and eyes at typical use concentrations (up to 10%).

· Toxicity: Low acute toxicity. Not classified as hazardous under normal use conditions.

· Regulatory Status: Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide. It is listed in the EU CosIng database and is GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) for food use by the FDA.

Technical profile: