1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent and preservative booster. Helps reduce the dose of classic preservatives in the formula and slightly retains skin moisture.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Technological ingredient without standalone activity. Well tolerated at cosmetic concentrations, rarely irritating.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Oily, Dry, Sensitive, Combination, Normal
About this ingredient
1,2-Hexanediol is a synthetic aliphatic diol with six carbon atoms. In cosmetic formulation it plays two roles: solvent and preservative booster. Mechanism. The molecule is amphiphilic and freely dissolves both water-soluble and mildly lipophilic actives. It acts on microbes directly by disrupting bacterial and fungal cell membranes. At 0.3–0.8% it boosts classic preservatives (phenoxyethanol, sodium benzoate), letting formulators reduce their dose. Where applied. Serums, essences, creams, micellar waters. Concentration 0.3–1%. Common in K-beauty and in the paraben-free Spanish lines (Sesderma, Endocare, Isdin) as part of the preservative system replacing parabens. Safety. CIR confirmed safety in cosmetics at up to 4% in 2017. Low irritation potential; contact allergy is rare and reported only at concentrations above 5%. Non-comedogenic. No systemic absorption through intact skin. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Topical systemic absorption is negligible; the molecule is metabolised to CO2 and water. Functional role. No standalone skin benefit: this is a formulation aid, not a cosmetic active.
Frequently asked questions
Is 1,2-Hexanediol safe during pregnancy?
1,2-Hexanediol is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is 1,2-Hexanediol for?
1,2-Hexanediol suits: oily, dry, sensitive, combination, normal.
What is 1,2-Hexanediol and what does it do in cosmetics?
Solvent and preservative booster.
What's the INCI name for 1,2-Hexanediol?
The INCI name is 1,2-Hexanediol. It may also appear as: Hexylene Glycol, 2-Hexanediol, Hexanediol.
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