Benzyl Glycol
Solvent and mild preservative. Functional formulation ingredient with no standalone activity on the skin.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
About this ingredient
Benzyl Glycol is an aromatic monoaryl glycol, a synthetic solvent and a mild preservative booster. Mechanism. Plays two roles in formulation. As a solvent it improves the solubility of poorly water-miscible actives (niacinamide, urea, urea-derived salts). As a preservative booster at 0.5–1% it strengthens classic preservatives (phenoxyethanol, benzoate, sorbate), letting formulators reduce their dose while keeping microbial stability. Where applied. Serums, toners, essences, micellar waters, shampoos, shower gels. Concentration 0.5–1.5%. In Spain it appears in K-beauty and niche lines, less often in pharmacy dermocosmetics. Safety. No direct CIR monograph, but the aryl glycol family is rated safe at cosmetic concentrations. Irritation and contact allergies are rare. Non-comedogenic. Topical systemic absorption is minimal. In pregnancy – safe topically. No direct lactation data; the risk is purely theoretical. Functional role. A formula aid. No standalone skin activity – it helps the formula stay stable and lets preservatives work more efficiently.
Frequently asked questions
Is Benzyl Glycol safe during pregnancy?
Benzyl Glycol is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What is Benzyl Glycol and what does it do in cosmetics?
Solvent and mild preservative.
What's the INCI name for Benzyl Glycol?
The INCI name is Benzyl Glycol.
See Benzyl Glycol in a product composition right on the store page
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Similar role in the formula
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