PROPYLENE GLYCOL

PROPYLENE GLYCOL

EXCIPIENT ⎪ HUMECTANT 

Definition: What is Propylene Glycol?

Propylene glycol is a synthetic organic compound, used as a moisturizing agent, solvent and preservative in many cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food products. Its ability to attract moisture makes it an excellent humectant, which helps keep skin hydrated and stabilizes the consistency of formulations. Propylene glycol is also recognized for its safety in use and is commonly used as a solvent to aid in the dispersion of other ingredients in formulations.

Propylene glycol is an organic compound found naturally in sesame or mushrooms.

It is used in our intimate gel and our emulsion for its very interesting humectant and solvent properties, it also promotes good penetration of other active ingredients.

Where does Propylene Glycol come from?

Propylene glycol is made synthetically from propylene oxide, a chemical compound derived from petroleum. Although it is of synthetic origin, it is considered safe and widely used in the cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical industries. Propylene glycol is a versatile ingredient and is particularly appreciated for its stability and its ability to preserve products by retaining moisture, thus preventing them from drying out.

Properties and active ingredients

Propylene glycol is known for its moisturizing properties and its ability to stabilize cosmetic and food products. Here are the main characteristics of this ingredient:

1. Powerful humectant : Propylene glycol attracts and retains moisture in products and on the skin, helping to maintain continuous hydration.
2. Effective solvent : It acts as a solvent, facilitating the dissolution of other ingredients in formulations and ensuring their uniformity.
3. Texturing agent : It helps stabilize the texture of products, improving their consistency and spreadability, making it ideal for lotions and creams.
4. Preservative effect : Propylene glycol can inhibit the growth of microorganisms in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, extending their shelf life.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PROPYLENE GLYCOL?

Propylene glycol has many benefits in personal care products and other applications. Here are the main benefits of this ingredient:

1. Skin hydration : Thanks to its humectant power, propylene glycol helps attract and retain moisture in the skin, improving its hydration and softness.
2. Improved product texture : By ensuring a smooth and homogeneous consistency, propylene glycol allows better application of cosmetic products to the skin.
3. Stabilization of formulations : It helps maintain the integrity of products by preventing drying out and maintaining the desired texture.
4. Product preservation support : By limiting the proliferation of microorganisms, propylene glycol extends the life of cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, making them safer in the long term.
5. Rapid absorption of other active ingredients : As a solvent, it facilitates the absorption of other active ingredients into the skin, thus improving the effectiveness of skincare products.

Use: How is it used?

Propylene glycol is commonly used in various consumer products, mainly in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and food:

• Cosmetics and skin care : Propylene glycol is a common ingredient in creams, lotions, serums and deodorants for its moisturizing and stabilizing properties.
• Pharmaceuticals : It is used as an excipient in many medicines, particularly in creams, ointments and syrups, to facilitate the dissolution of active ingredients.
• Food products : In the food industry, it is used as an additive (E1520) to retain moisture, stabilize the texture and improve the consistency of foods.

Note : Propylene glycol is generally well tolerated, but it is advisable to check labels if you have particularly sensitive skin or specific allergies.

Any side effects?

Propylene glycol is considered safe at recommended doses, but some side effects may occur in sensitive individuals:

1. Skin irritation : Some people with sensitive skin may experience mild irritation, redness, or itching when using products containing propylene glycol.
2. Allergic reactions : Although rare, allergic reactions can occur. It is advisable to do a skin test before using a product containing propylene glycol if you have very reactive skin.
3. Airway sensitivity : In case of prolonged inhalation, particularly in environments of high concentration (industry), propylene glycol can irritate the respiratory tract.
4. High dose toxicity : Propylene glycol is safe at doses used in cosmetics and foods, but very high ingestion or exposure could be toxic. Doses in consumer products, however, remain well below the toxicity thresholds.