humectant

Butylene Glycol

Also known as 1,3-Butanediol
INCI: BUTYLENE GLYCOL
CAS 107-88-0 EC 203-529-7 (i), 228-532-0 (ii)
A humectant and solvent that helps ingredients penetrate the skin.
Generally Safe
This ingredient has a good safety profile based on available data.
Details

Description

A humectant and solvent that helps ingredients penetrate the skin.

Purpose

Function

Diol humectant and solvent. Attracts water into the stratum corneum. Lighter sensory profile and lower irritation potential than propylene glycol. Used in sensitive-skin formulations.HumectantSolventSkin Conditioning
Profile

Properties

Vegan
Yes
Silicone
Silicone free
Origin
Synthetic
Malassezia
Safe
Fungal Acne
Safe
Reef Safe
Yes
Compliance

Regulatory Status

EU
Permitted
Safety
GOOD
US
Permitted
Absorptionmoderate
Sensitizationlow
MoSnot established
NOAEL3200 mg/kg
ConcernLow
Flags
epa_safer_alternativeifra_fragrancefda_food_additive
Verdict

Preferred diol humectant for sensitive-skin formulations with lighter sensory profile and lower irritation potential compared to propylene glycol. Non-occlusive hygroscopic mechanism with excellent tolerability on sensitive and reactive skin.

US Note

CIR reviewed; considered safe. Preferred over propylene glycol in sensitive-skin formulations due to lower irritation profile. Not comedogenic at standard use levels.

Assessment

Ratings

Comedogenic2/5
LowHigh
Irritancy0/5
LowHigh
Reference

Identifiers

CAS Number
107-88-0
EC Number
203-529-7 (i), 228-532-0 (ii)
INCI
BUTYLENE GLYCOL
Category
humectant
Updated
Apr 2, 2026