Propanediol

Propanediol

By Richard Bence
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Propanediol is one of those rare ingredients that benefits virtually every skin type while being exceptionally gentle. If you've seen this ingredient in your skincare products, you're likely benefiting from its remarkable ability to both hydrate your skin and help other beneficial ingredients work more effectively [1]. It's particularly valuable for those with dry or sensitive skin (skin types 1 and 2), as research shows it helps strengthen the skin's natural barrier while providing lasting hydration [2].

What makes Propanediol especially interesting is its versatility. For those with balanced or oily skin (skin types 3, 4, and 5), it provides hydration without adding heaviness or blocking pores [3]. Recent research demonstrates that when used at optimal concentrations (around 8%), it not only helps keep skin hydrated but also contributes to maintaining healthy skin by supporting natural preservation systems [4]. This means your products stay fresh while your skin gets the care it needs.

Perhaps most impressively, a 2022 study showed that skincare formulations containing Propanediol significantly improved skin barrier function and hydration levels across all skin types [4]. For those concerned about sensitivity, multiple safety assessments have confirmed its gentle nature and low irritation potential [5]. Whether you're dealing with dry, sensitive skin that needs extra care, or oily skin that requires hydration without heaviness, Propanediol works to maintain your skin's natural balance while enhancing the benefits of your other skincare products.

If you're someone who pays attention to ingredient sustainability, you'll be pleased to know that Propanediol is typically derived through natural fermentation of corn sugar, making it an environmentally conscious alternative to traditional petroleum-based ingredients [6]. This natural origin, combined with its proven benefits and gentle nature, makes it a valuable ingredient in modern skincare formulations.

References

  1. Sullivan DW et al. (2015) 'Safety Assessment of Propanediol, Methyl Propanediol, and Butyl Propanediol', International Journal of Toxicology, 34(2), pp. 5S-24S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581815576314
  2. Becker LC et al. (2012) 'Safety Assessment of Propylene Glycol, Tripropylene Glycol, and PPGs', International Journal of Toxicology, 31(5), pp. 245S-260S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581812461381
  3. Johnson W et al. (2012) 'Safety Assessment of 1,3-Propanediol and Related Compounds', International Journal of Toxicology, 31(3), pp. 77S-83S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581812447202
  4. Nadarzynski A et al. (2022) 'Skin Barrier Enhancing Alternative Preservation Strategy of O/W Emulsions by Water Activity Reduction with Natural Multifunctional Ingredients', Cosmetics, 9(3), p. 53. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics9030053
  5. Fiume MM et al. (2018) 'Safety Assessment of Alkane Diols as Used in Cosmetics', International Journal of Toxicology, 37(3_suppl), pp. 5S-24S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581818764158
  6. Choi J et al. (2019) 'Safety of Propanediol as a Novel Food pursuant to Regulation', EFSA Journal, 17(5), e05697. https://doi.org/10.2903/j.efsa.2019.5697

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