Five-carbon glycol. Works as a humectant and preservative booster: suppresses microbial growth and reduces the preservative load of the formula.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Glycol with a dual function: hydrates and boosts preservative activity. Fits clean formulas without parabens.
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.
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.
Pentylene Glycol is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Pentylene Glycol suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
Five-carbon glycol.
The INCI name is Pentylene Glycol. It may also appear as: 1,2-Pentanediol, Пентиленгликоль, пентиленгликоль.
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