Butylene Glycol

TYPE OF INGREDIENT​
Humectant, slip agent
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Creams, gels

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BUTYLENE GLYCOL?

Butylene glycol can improve the texture of creams and gels while allowing them to be more spreadable. Additionally, it is a humectant that can help trap moisture on the skin.

WHAT IS BUTYLENE GLYCOL?

Butylene glycol (i.e., butanediol) is an alcohol used to decrease viscosity of creams and gels in order for the product to become more spreadable. Butylene glycol is also used as a humectant to retain moisture in the skin.

IS BUTYLENE GLYCOL SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?

Butylene glycol is likely safe for all skin types and tones based on available data. However, patients with sensitization to cosmetic products or other contact allergens may need to be cautious of this product.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

There is minimal data on contraindications for the topical application of butylene glycol. Although rare, there are reports of contact dermatitis reactions to butylene glycol.

Sources:

Aizawa A, Ito A, Masui Y, Ito M. Case of allergic contact dermatitis due to 1,3-butylene glycol. J Dermatol. 2014;41(9):815-816.

Fisher AA. Reactions to popular cosmetic humectants. Part III. Glycerin, propylene glycol, and butylene glycol. Cutis. 1980;26(3):243-269.

Kim E, Nam GW, Kim S, Lee H, Moon S, Chang I. Influence of polyol and oil concentration in cosmetic products on skin moisturization and skin surface roughness. Skin Res Technol. 2007;13(4):417-424.

Nishad Sathe, MD

Author

Nishad Sathe is a PGY-3 Internal Medicine/Dermatology resident at the University of Minnesota