Ethylhexylglycerin
Alkylglyceryl ether with deodorizing and mild antimicrobial effects. Boosts the preservative efficacy of phenoxyethanol. Often listed alongside it on ingredient labels.
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
- Oily, Dry, Sensitive, Combination, Normal
About this ingredient
Ethylhexylglycerin is an alkyl glyceryl ether. A multifunctional ingredient: deodorizing action (binds odor-causing bacteria in the underarm), mild antimicrobial effect, preservative booster. Often appears alongside phenoxyethanol on labels. Where applied. Creams, lotions, serums, deodorants, cleansers, toners (0.3-1.5%). In Spain in La Roche-Posay, CeraVe, Avène, Bioderma – almost a standard "pre-preservative" in modern cosmetics. Mechanism. Reduces surface tension of bacterial membranes – boosts core preservatives (phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, parabens) 2-4 fold. Lowers their working concentration and total formula load. Evidence base. CIR Final Report 2013 confirmed safety up to 5% in leave-on. SCCS 2014 included it among recommended functional ingredients. Contact dermatitis described in 0.5-1% of patch-test patients (Hayama 2014). Safety. Hypoallergenic in most cases. Sensitization is more frequent in patients with eczema and atopic dermatitis, but contact allergy is reported in isolated cases. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ethylhexylglycerin safe during pregnancy?
Ethylhexylglycerin is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Ethylhexylglycerin for?
Ethylhexylglycerin suits: oily, dry, sensitive, combination, normal.
What is Ethylhexylglycerin and what does it do in cosmetics?
Alkylglyceryl ether with deodorizing and mild antimicrobial effects.
What's the INCI name for Ethylhexylglycerin?
The INCI name is Ethylhexylglycerin.
See Ethylhexylglycerin 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
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