Methylpropanediol
Glycol solvent. Enhances active penetration, humectant, replaces propylene glycol with better tolerance.
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, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Methylpropanediol is a synthetic diol, a humectant and solvent. Produced from plant feedstock (corn starch) by enzymatic processing. Mechanism. Humectant – pulls moisture from air into the stratum corneum. Penetration enhancer for other actives: improves bioavailability of retinol, vitamin C, acids. Solvent for fat-soluble components in aqueous formulas. Where applied. Serums, creams, toners with actives (retinol, AHA, BHA, vitamin C). Concentration 1–10%. An alternative to propylene glycol and butylene glycol with better tolerance. Evidence base. No clinical RCTs of topical methylpropanediol, but EWG lists it with low risk. CIR confirmed safety at concentrations up to 50%. Safety. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non-irritating (notably less than propylene glycol). Pregnancy and lactation – topically safe.
Frequently asked questions
Is Methylpropanediol safe during pregnancy?
Methylpropanediol is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Methylpropanediol for?
Methylpropanediol suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Methylpropanediol and what does it do in cosmetics?
Glycol solvent.
What's the INCI name for Methylpropanediol?
The INCI name is Methylpropanediol. It may also appear as: MPDiol.
See Methylpropanediol 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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