What is Butylene Glycol ?
Butylene Glycol (1,3 – butanediol) is a form of organic alcohol, which is derived from distilled petroleum, sugarcane and corn. It is water-soluble, viscous and colorless liquid, used in a broad range of haircare and skincare products. Butylene glycol also acts as a solvent which helps in dissolving the active ingredients that can become clumsy and gritty.Â
It usually does not irritate and makes the skin dry and is usually considered as safe to use as a topical skincare ingredient.
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CAS No.: 107-88-0
Synonyms: 1,3-butanediol, Butane-1,3-diol, 1,3-Butylene glycol, Butylene glycol,1,3-Dihydroxybutane, Methyltrimethylene glycol, 1,3 Butylene glycol, 1,3-Butandiol, beta-Butylene glycol
Properties of Butylene GlycolÂ
| Physical Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C4H10O2 |
| IUPAC name | Butane-1,3-diol |
| Molecular weight | 90.12 g/mol |
| Solubility | Miscible with water |
| Odor | Slight odor |
| Flash point | 121 °C |
| pH | 5.5 – 7 |
| Chemical Properties | |
| Color | Colorless |
| State | Liquid |
| Melting point | < -50 °C |
| Vapour density | 0.06 mm Hg (at 20 °C) |
Uses of Butylene Glycol
- Used as a viscosity-decreasing agent, meaning it makes less likely for other ingredients to stick together.Â
- Acts as a preservative that prevents contamination due to microorganisms.
- Butylene Glycol is also an emollient which coats the skin and hair surface, creating a barrier and prevents water loss.Â
Side Effects of Butylene Glycol
- Allergic reactionÂ
- Skin irritationÂ
- Rashes
| Pictograms : | Not Available |
| Hazard Statements : | Not Available |
| Precautionary statements : | P264: Wash thoroughly after handling. P420: Store away from incompatible materials. P501: Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local and federal regulations |
What is Butylene Glycol ?
Butylene Glycol (1,3 – butanediol) is a form of organic alcohol, which is derived from distilled petroleum, sugarcane and corn. It is water-soluble, viscous and colorless liquid, used in a broad range of haircare and skincare products. Butylene glycol also acts as a solvent which helps in dissolving the active ingredients that can become clumsy and gritty.Â
It usually does not irritate and makes the skin dry and is usually considered as safe to use as a topical skincare ingredient.
Â

CAS No.: 107-88-0
Synonyms: 1,3-butanediol, Butane-1,3-diol, 1,3-Butylene glycol, Butylene glycol,1,3-Dihydroxybutane, Methyltrimethylene glycol, 1,3 Butylene glycol, 1,3-Butandiol, beta-Butylene glycol
Properties of Butylene GlycolÂ
| Physical Properties | |
| Chemical formula | C4H10O2 |
| IUPAC name | Butane-1,3-diol |
| Molecular weight | 90.12 g/mol |
| Solubility | Miscible with water |
| Odor | Slight odor |
| Flash point | 121 °C |
| pH | 5.5 – 7 |
| Chemical Properties | |
| Color | Colorless |
| State | Liquid |
| Melting point | < -50 °C |
| Vapour density | 0.06 mm Hg (at 20 °C) |
Uses of Butylene Glycol
- Used as a viscosity-decreasing agent, meaning it makes less likely for other ingredients to stick together.Â
- Acts as a preservative that prevents contamination due to microorganisms.
- Butylene Glycol is also an emollient which coats the skin and hair surface, creating a barrier and prevents water loss.Â
Side Effects of Butylene Glycol
- Allergic reactionÂ
- Skin irritationÂ
- Rashes
| Pictograms : | Not Available |
| Hazard Statements : | Not Available |
| Precautionary statements : | P264: Wash thoroughly after handling. P420: Store away from incompatible materials. P501: Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local and federal regulations |
FAQ's
Butylene Glycol is not a paraben, it is an organic alcohol whereas parabens are a class of preservatives like methylparaben and propylparaben.
Yes, with the approval of FDA, it is considered as safe in cosmetics and skincare products.
