Butylene Glycol

INCI: Butylene Glycol

Butylene glycol is a clear, odorless humectant and solvent used widely in skincare, haircare, and makeup.

It improves hydration, texture, penetration, and stability of cosmetic formulas.

🔹 Key Functions in Cosmetics

1. Humectant (Moisture Attractor)

• Draws water into the skin
• Helps keep products hydrating and non-drying
• Works similarly to glycerin but with less tackiness

2. Solvent / Carrier

Helps dissolve:

• Actives
• Plant extracts
• Preservatives
• Fragrances
• High-polarity ingredients
• Improves formula uniformity.

3. Penetration Enhancer

Helps actives penetrate deeper, making them more effective: eg

• Niacinamide
• Vitamin C derivatives
• AHAs
• Botanical extracts

4. Texture Improver

• Gives formulas a smooth, silky glide
• Reduces stickiness (especially in glycerin-heavy formulas)
• Stabilizes gel textures

5. Preservative Booster

Enhances the performance of preservative systems, especially:

• Phenoxyethanol
• Potassium sorbate
• Organic acid preservatives

🔹 Use Levels

Typical ranges:

• 1–5% for general moisturization
• 5–10% in serums and essences

🔹 Solubility & Compatibility

• Fully water-soluble
• Mixes with alcohol
• Compatible with glycerin, propanediol, sorbitol, HA
• Compatible with surfactants, emulsifiers, silicones, oils (when emulsified)
• Does not require heating — can be added to any phase.

🔹 Sensory Profile

• Less sticky than glycerin
• Lightweight
• Silky, smooth glide
• Improves slip of emulsions and gels

🔹 Safety

• Non-irritating
• Non-sensitizing
• Non-comedogenic
• Safe for acne-prone and sensitive skin
• Approved globally (EU, FDA, etc.)
• Used in baby products and medical skincare.

🔹 Common Uses

• Serums
• Toners & essences
• Lotions & creams
• Sunscreens
• Makeup (foundations, primers)
• Hair conditioners & sprays
• Cleansers
• Gel-based products