Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientSolventEthoxydiglycol
INCI: Ethoxydiglycol
Ethoxydiglycol (INCI: Ethoxydiglycol; also known as diethylene glycol monoethyl ether or DEGEE) is a clear, odourless liquid solvent and humectant used widely in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. It excels at dissolving and stabilising challenging actives — including vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, and dihydroxyacetone (DHA) — and also acts as a penetration enhancer, helping other actives absorb more deeply into the skin. It is permitted in EU cosmetics under Annex III (entry 297), meaning it is restricted rather than banned, with safety assessments by the SCCS confirming it is safe at authorised concentrations.
Category
Solvent
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
all skin types, oily, acne-prone, dry, combination, sensitive
What does this do in a formula?
solubilising difficult actives, penetration enhancement, formulation stability, mild humectancy, improved efficacy of co-ingredients
Is Ethoxydiglycol safe? Key considerations
Can Ethoxydiglycol cause irritation?
Low RiskIrritancy rating of 0 on the INCIDecoder scale. Multiple SCCS safety opinions (2006, 2008, 2010, 2013) confirm a low irritation profile at cosmetic concentrations. Restricted under EU Annex III (entry 297) — not because it is harmful at typical use levels, but as a precautionary regulatory measure. Well tolerated by most skin types.
Does Ethoxydiglycol increase sun sensitivity?
No RiskEthoxydiglycol is not a photosensitising agent. Its function as a solvent/penetration enhancer does not increase UV sensitivity. No special sun protection measures are required solely on the basis of this ingredient.
Is Ethoxydiglycol safe during pregnancy?
CautionEthoxydiglycol is not classified as a reproductive toxicant at cosmetic concentrations, and SCCS assessments have found it safe for general use. However, specific clinical pregnancy safety data is limited. As a penetration enhancer, it may increase systemic absorption of co-formulated actives. Precautionary caution is reasonable, particularly in leave-on products with active ingredients — consult a healthcare provider if concerned.
How does Ethoxydiglycol work?
Ethoxydiglycol (INCI: Ethoxydiglycol; also known as diethylene glycol monoethyl ether or DEGEE) is a clear, odourless liquid solvent and humectant used widely in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. It excels at dissolving and stabilising challenging actives — including vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, and dihydroxyacetone (DHA) — and also acts as a penetration enhancer, helping other actives absorb more deeply into the skin. It is permitted in EU cosmetics under Annex III (entry 297), meaning it is restricted rather than banned, with safety assessments by the SCCS confirming it is safe at authorised concentrations.
Which products contain Ethoxydiglycol?
Shop products that contain Ethoxydiglycol
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides)
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Matrixyl 10% + HA
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Multi-Peptide + HA Serum
Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA
Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%
Marine Hyaluronics
