What is propylene glycol (PG)? You may have spotted this multifunctional element in various medications, cosmetics, skin, and hair products, among others. Generally speaking, it’s sought after for its hydrating properties, as it attracts water and adds moisture to the skin.
So, what is it? What can you use this ingredient for? And how should you use it? We’ll answer each of these questions in a bit more detail.
Table of Contents
What Is Propylene Glycol Really?
PG is a clear liquid made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. It’s odorless, tasteless, and relatively thick.
It works well because it can interact with various active ingredients in a product. This makes it work as a base, carrier, or solvent in cosmetic products.
PG is a humectant, so it helps retain moisture. That’s why it’s common in skin and hair care products.
You can also find it in hand sanitizers to offset some of their dehydrating effects. Furthermore, manufacturers often use it to keep products from drying out.
And that’s not all you can use this versatile ingredient for!
It also has anti-oxidant and mild anti-bacterial properties. Plus, it is water-soluble and works as a thickening agent.
PG works well in oil-based products that need to be emulsified as it helps keep oil and water from separating.
Other Product Labels
Propylene Glycol is the most common name for this element. However, you can also sometimes see PG on product labels with the following names:
- α-Propylene glycol
- Dihydroxypropane
- Methyl ethyl glycol
- 1,2 propanediol
- Trimethyl glycol
How To Use PG
Usually, you will buy PG as part of a ready-made product.
You can also get pure PG from chemical wholesalers. However, if you buy it in its pure form, make sure to check that it’s food-grade. If it’s advertised as United States Pharmacopeia (USP) grade, that’s also a good sign.
You can use pure PG when making your own hand sanitizers, soaps, and lotions. Avoid using too much of it in one go, though, as it may make the mixture too thick.
Essential Safety Points To Consider
Propylene Glycol is unlikely to cause redness, irritation, or trigger skin allergies on its own. It’s considered non-toxic in smaller amounts, and it’s generally safe for a variety of human uses.
Humectants like PG absorb moisture from what’s around them. In skincare products, this can create some risk. If harmful substances come near your skin, PG can increase how many toxins your skin absorbs.
The problem is that if you live in a polluted area or you’re exposed to harmful substances, PG can draw these into your skin. Over time, this may harm your skin’s natural barrier and cause it to flare up. It’s especially risky if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Accidental ingestion of PG in small amounts should not cause a problem. It’s safe to use in medications except for ear drops. PG may lead to deafness if it gets inside the ear canal.
So, really, this power ingredient is pretty safe to use. If you have concerns about it, you can to substitute it for vegetable glycerin, although the latter is generally pricier.
What Products Can You Find It In?
Many cosmetics and toiletries, like liquid eyeliner and shampoo, have PG to keep them at the right consistency.
PG attracts water. So it’s common in lotions and creams to increase their moisturizing properties.
It also acts as a solvent or carrier for medications and toiletries, including some oral medications and ointments.
PG changes to a gas quickly. So some cosmetic vaporizers, like facial mists and medical inhalation devices, contain PG.
Summary
Propylene glycol is a humectant and emulsifier that’s generally safe for humans. Do keep it away from felines and avoid using it around your ears.
As with many other substances, too much can eventually cause problems like irritation, redness, and skin allergies. For those with sensitive skins and anyone living in a polluted area, PG is probably best avoided.
Overall, there’s a lot of value in using PG for your cosmetic routine. It hydrates, retains moisture, works as an anti-bacterial, preservative, and much, much more.