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Comprehensive Cosmetic Industry Ingredient Guide

THIS IS A UNIVERSAL REFERENCE GUIDE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES

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Ingredient
Butylene Glycol

Butylene Glycol

Summary

Butylene Glycol is a versatile cosmetic ingredient that is commonly used as a humectant, solvent, and viscosity-reducing agent. It is a clear, odorless, and colorless liquid that is easily absorbed by the skin, making it an ideal ingredient for moisturizing and hydrating formulations. Butylene Glycol is also known for its ability to enhance the penetration of other active ingredients, making it a popular choice in anti-aging and skin brightening products. Additionally, it has a low potential for skin irritation and is considered safe for use in cosmetic formulations. Overall, Butylene Glycol is a valuable ingredient in the cosmetic industry due to its multifunctional properties and compatibility with a wide range of other ingredients.

INCI Name and Common References

International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients name: Butylene Glycol Common terms: Butylene alcohol, 1,3-Butanediol Nicknames: BG, B-Glycerin

Function

Butylene Glycol is a common ingredient in cosmetic formulations that acts as a humectant, which means it helps to retain moisture in the skin. It also has a low molecular weight, which allows it to penetrate the skin easily and deliver other active ingredients deeper into the skin. Additionally, Butylene Glycol can help to improve the texture and spreadability of cosmetic products, making them easier to apply and more pleasant to use.

Science

Butylene glycol is a small organic molecule with a molecular weight of 90.12 g/mol. It is a clear, colorless liquid that is soluble in water and has a low viscosity. Due to its small size and water solubility, butylene glycol is able to penetrate the skin easily and is often used as a humectant in skincare products. As a humectant, butylene glycol works by attracting water molecules from the environment and binding them to the skin. This helps to increase the skin's hydration levels and improve its overall appearance. Additionally, butylene glycol has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which can help to prevent the growth of bacteria on the skin. Overall, the physical properties of butylene glycol make it an effective ingredient in skincare products, helping to improve hydration levels and protect against harmful bacteria.

Benefits

1. Hydration: Butylene Glycol is a humectant that helps to attract and retain moisture in the skin, keeping it hydrated and plump. 2. Penetration: It has a small molecular size that allows it to penetrate the skin easily, helping other active ingredients to be absorbed more effectively. 3. Texture: Butylene Glycol has a silky texture that helps to improve the spreadability and absorption of skincare products, making them feel more luxurious on the skin. 4. Anti-aging: It has antioxidant properties that help to protect the skin from free radical damage, which can lead to premature aging. 5. Soothing: Butylene Glycol has anti-inflammatory properties that help to calm and soothe irritated skin, making it a great ingredient for sensitive skin types. 6. Preservation: It is often used as a preservative in skincare products, helping to extend their shelf life and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Negatives

Butylene Glycol is a commonly used ingredient in skincare and cosmetic products. While it is generally considered safe for use, there are some potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions that should be taken into consideration. One possible side effect of Butylene Glycol is skin irritation. Some people may experience redness, itching, or a rash when using products containing this ingredient. This is more likely to occur in individuals with sensitive skin or those who are allergic to other ingredients in the product. Another potential sensitivity to Butylene Glycol is eye irritation. If the product containing this ingredient comes into contact with the eyes, it may cause stinging, burning, or watering. It is important to avoid getting the product in the eyes and to rinse thoroughly with water if it does happen. Butylene Glycol may also interact with other ingredients in a product. For example, it may enhance the penetration of other ingredients into the skin, which could increase the risk of irritation or allergic reactions. It is important to read the label carefully and to avoid using products that contain ingredients that you are allergic to. Overall, Butylene Glycol is a safe and effective ingredient that is widely used in skincare and cosmetic products. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions that it may have and to use products containing this ingredient with caution.

Source

Butylene Glycol is a synthetic ingredient that is derived from petroleum. It is commonly used in skincare and cosmetic products as a humectant, which helps to retain moisture in the skin. The processing pathway for Butylene Glycol involves the use of various chemical reactions to convert petroleum into a liquid that can be used in skincare products. The resulting product is then purified and tested for quality before being added to formulations.

Safety

According to the EWG Skin Deep database, Butylene Glycol has a safety rating of 1-2, which means it is considered to be a low to moderate hazard ingredient. It has been found to be non-toxic and non-irritating to the skin, and is commonly used as a humectant and solvent in skincare and cosmetic products. Other sources also indicate that Butylene Glycol is generally safe for use in personal care products when used in appropriate concentrations. However, as with any ingredient, individuals with sensitive skin or allergies may want to exercise caution and perform a patch test before using products containing Butylene Glycol.

Sustainability

Butylene Glycol is a common ingredient used in many personal care and cosmetic products, including moisturizers, serums, and hair care products. While it is generally considered safe for use in these products, there are some concerns about its environmental impact and ethical sourcing practices. One of the main environmental concerns associated with Butylene Glycol is its potential to contribute to water pollution. When it is washed off the skin or hair, it can enter the water supply and potentially harm aquatic life. Additionally, the production of Butylene Glycol requires the use of fossil fuels, which can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. In terms of ethical sourcing practices, there are some concerns about the use of palm oil in the production of Butylene Glycol. Palm oil is a controversial ingredient due to its association with deforestation, habitat destruction, and human rights abuses in countries where it is produced. Some companies have committed to using sustainably sourced palm oil or avoiding it altogether, but it is important for consumers to research the sourcing practices of the products they use. Overall, while Butylene Glycol is generally considered safe for use in personal care products, it is important to consider its potential environmental impact and ethical sourcing practices. Consumers can look for products that use sustainably sourced ingredients and avoid products that contain palm oil if they are concerned about these issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Butylene Glycol is a versatile ingredient commonly used in skincare and cosmetic products due to its ability to improve product texture and enhance the absorption of other active ingredients. While it is generally considered safe for use, some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions. However, it is important to note that Butylene Glycol is derived from petroleum, which raises concerns about its sustainability and environmental impact. As such, it is important for manufacturers to consider alternative, more sustainable sources of this ingredient. Overall, Butylene Glycol can be a beneficial ingredient in skincare and cosmetic products when used responsibly and with consideration for its potential negative impacts.

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