Glycol solvent. Enhances active penetration, humectant, replaces propylene glycol with better tolerance.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Modern safe glycol.
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.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora 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.
Methylpropanediol is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Methylpropanediol suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
Glycol solvent.
The INCI name is Methylpropanediol. It may also appear as: MPDiol, метилпропандиол.
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