Hexylene Glycol
Six-carbon glycol with solvent and antimicrobial properties. Boosts preservative performance and helps deliver actives into the stratum corneum.
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, Oily, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Hexylene Glycol (2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol) is a six-carbon diol with solvent and antimicrobial properties. Where applied. Creams, serums, cleansers (1-5%). Solvent, preservative booster, mild penetration enhancer. Often combined with phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin. Safety. CIR Final Report 2014 confirmed safety up to 7% in leave-on. Hypoallergenic. Mild irritation possible in very sensitive skin at concentrations above 5%. Pregnancy and lactation – safe.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hexylene Glycol safe during pregnancy?
Hexylene Glycol is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Hexylene Glycol for?
Hexylene Glycol suits: normal, dry, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is Hexylene Glycol and what does it do in cosmetics?
Six-carbon glycol with solvent and antimicrobial properties.
What's the INCI name for Hexylene Glycol?
The INCI name is Hexylene Glycol.
See Hexylene Glycol 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: