Humectant

Butylene Glycol

One of the most common solvents and moisturizers in modern cosmetics. Butylene glycol is present in hundreds of formulas — from toners to creams — as a multifunctional component that moisturizes, improves texture, and helps actives penetrate deeper.

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⚠ Use with Caution

Comedogenic Rating

1/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Butylene glycol (BG, 1,3-butanediol) is a synthetic diol. A colorless, viscous liquid with no odor. In INCI: Butylene Glycol. Belongs to the glycol family — structurally close to propylene glycol, but less irritating and with better profiling on sensitive skin. Widely used in both the aqueous and oily phases of formulas.

One of the basic components of most water-based formulas — toners, essences, serums, and creams. Performs several functions at once: moisturizes, dissolves actives (e.g., niacinamide, peptides), improves spread and feel, increases nutrient penetration through the stratum corneum.

Key Benefits

✦

Moisturizing and moisture retention

The hydrophilic molecule attracts water from the environment and retains it in the upper layers of the stratum corneum — a soft humectant effect without a film feeling.

◈

Solvent and carrier for actives

BG dissolves a wide range of actives — niacinamide, peptides, extracts — and enhances their delivery into the skin due to a mild penetration-enhancing effect.

✧

Improving formula texture

Provides formulas with a light glide and water-like feel, reducing viscosity. A typical feature of Korean essences or toners with BG is a silky, almost watery texture.

◉

Antimicrobial booster

At concentrations of 3% BG has its own antimicrobial activity and enhances the action of primary preservatives — often used in preservative-boost systems together with ethylhexylglycerin or caprylyl glycol.

Suitable for

for all skin typesfor sensitive skinfor oily skin

Main Actions

✓ moisturizing✓ dissolving actives✓ improving penetration✓ improving texture

Does it irritate the skin?

Butylene glycol is considered a well-tolerated component, much milder than propylene glycol. Reports of irritation are rare. Sensitive skin may react to very concentrated products (>15%), but in standard formulas (1–8%) — it is safe even for reactive skin.

CategoryHumectants

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