3 ingredients
Humectant, Solvent
Explore all 3 ingredients in the Humectant, Solvent category. Learn about their benefits and find products that contain them.
Propanediol
Propanediol (1,3-propanediol) is a naturally derived diol produced sustainably from corn sugar, and is Ecocert approved. It functions primarily as a humectant and solvent, drawing moisture into the skin while also improving the spreadability and texture of formulations. It is widely regarded as a gentler, more skin-compatible alternative to propylene glycol.
Learn more →2-Hexanediol
1,2-Hexanediol is a short-chain diol (two hydroxyl groups on a six-carbon chain) used in cosmetics as a humectant, solvent, and antimicrobial booster. It helps retain moisture in the skin and contributes a soft, pleasant skin feel. It is also widely used to enhance the efficacy of traditional preservatives, allowing formulators to reduce their concentration.
Learn more →Butylene Glycol
Butylene glycol (also called BG or 1,3-butanediol) is a colourless, syrupy liquid widely used in cosmetics as a multifunctional ingredient. It serves as a humectant that attracts water into the skin, a solvent that helps dissolve other ingredients, and a penetration enhancer that improves the absorption and spreadability of active ingredients across the skin surface.
Learn more →