Pentylene Glycol
Five-carbon glycol. Works as a humectant and preservative booster: suppresses microbial growth and reduces the preservative load of the formula.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Glycol with a dual function: hydrates and boosts preservative activity. Fits clean formulas without parabens.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Pentylene Glycol (1,2-pentanediol) is a five-carbon glycol. Combines humectant and preservative-booster roles: suppresses growth of bacteria, yeasts and moulds, lowering the load of primary preservatives in the formula. Where applied. Creams, serums, toners, micellar water (1-5%). One of the core components of "preservative-free" formulations – replaces phenoxyethanol or methylparaben. Especially popular in Bioderma, La Roche-Posay, Avène, Filorga. Evidence base. Lee (Int J Cosmet Sci, 2014) and Schnuch (Contact Dermatitis, 2012) showed pentylene glycol at 5% effectively suppresses growth of S. aureus, E. coli, C. albicans, A. brasiliensis – the key organisms covered by ISO 11930 preservation challenge tests. Safety. CIR confirmed safety at concentrations up to 10% (Final Report 2012). In 1-2% of patients with dry, sensitive skin can cause transient stinging – especially above 5%. Contact dermatitis is rare (Schnuch 2018, frequency <0.1%). Pregnancy and lactation – safe. No EU or AAP restrictions. Suitable for any formulation.
Frequently asked questions
Is Pentylene Glycol safe during pregnancy?
Pentylene Glycol is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Pentylene Glycol for?
Pentylene Glycol suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Pentylene Glycol and what does it do in cosmetics?
Five-carbon glycol.
What's the INCI name for Pentylene Glycol?
The INCI name is Pentylene Glycol. It may also appear as: 1,2-Pentanediol.
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