Ethyl Hexanediol
A humectant and solvent. It holds moisture and helps other ingredients spread in the formula. Well tolerated.
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
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Ethyl Hexanediol is a polyhydric alcohol (a diol). INCI: Ethyl Hexanediol. In a formula it works as a solvent, humectant, and preservation-system booster: it dissolves other components, holds water, and raises the effectiveness of preservatives, allowing their dose to be lowered. It is a functional component, not a skincare active. It helps the formula stay stable and pleasant in texture. Pregnancy safety. At cosmetic concentrations topical use is systemically negligible, with no evidence of harm. It can be used during pregnancy and lactation. Tolerance. At working concentrations, irritation and allergen potential are low.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ethyl Hexanediol safe during pregnancy?
Ethyl Hexanediol is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Ethyl Hexanediol for?
Ethyl Hexanediol suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Ethyl Hexanediol and what does it do in cosmetics?
A humectant and solvent.
What's the INCI name for Ethyl Hexanediol?
The INCI name is Ethyl Hexanediol.
See Ethyl Hexanediol in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Published: · updated: