Ingredient
Ethylhexylglycerin
What is Ethylhexylglycerin?
Ethylhexylglycerin is a synthetic compound derived from glycerin. It is often used in personal care products as a weak preservative and a skin conditioning agent.
This ingredient is mainly used to enhance the effectiveness of preservatives like phenoxyethanol, allowing lower concentrations of potentially irritating chemicals to sustain product shelf life. While generally considered safe for use in cosmetics, some users may experience mild skin irritation.
When you see ethylhexylglycerin on a label, it's usually present in products aimed at improving the texture and longevity of the formula without resorting to harsher preservatives.
Commonly found in: Body Lotion, Lip Care, Skin Care, Sunscreen, Makeup
What to watch
- May cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
- Enhances the preservative effect of other compounds, reducing the need for stronger preservatives.
Ethylhexylglycerin is allowed for use in cosmetics in the US without specific restrictions.
While generally considered safe, some studies note potential for mild irritation.
Ethylhexylglycerin is synthetically derived and not animal-derived, fitting vegan criteria.
Sources: Ethylhexylglycerin Safety Assessment
Scout's take
Synthetic preservative-booster — CIR-safe and well-tolerated, but a petroleum-derived synthetic that clean brands typically replace with food-grade/natural systems. Minor clean-beauty demerit.
The case against
There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient, though it may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Sun Bum Signature SPF 30 Lotion · echoed in 2 other analysesThere are minimal risks associated with its use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of Carpe Antiperspirant for Underarms / Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate / LOTION · echoed in 2 other analysesThere are minimal risks, primarily related to potential skin irritation in very sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum CreamGenerally considered safe, but may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
from the analysis of OSEA Undaria Algae Body Wash - Travel Size - Ulta BeautyEthylhexylglycerin can cause mild skin irritation in some individuals.
from the analysis of SheaMoisture Men Waves Pomade - Argan Oil & Shea ButterThe case for
It helps to enhance the effectiveness of preservatives and condition the skin.
from the analysis of Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula® with Vitamin E Daily Body Lotion Tahitian Vanilla · echoed in 1 other analysisIt enhances the efficacy of preservatives and provides a mild conditioning effect on the skin.
from the analysis of Duke Cannon Supply Co. Aluminum Free Deodorant, SuperiorEthylhexylglycerin enhances the preservation of the product and conditions the skin.
from the analysis of SheaMoisture Men Waves Pomade - Argan Oil & Shea ButterIt helps to improve skin hydration and extend the shelf life of the product.
from the analysis of Saltair Multi-Lipid Replenishing Body Butter - Salt Water VanillaIt enhances the preservation of the product and provides a smooth skin feel.
from the analysis of Sun Bum Signature SPF 30 LotionMore from Scout's analyses
Fully synthetic preservative/booster (ethylhexylglycerin, chlorphenesin, 1,2-hexanediol).
from the analysis of W3LL People Lip Butter SPF 15 Tinted BalmEthylhexylglycerin is used as a skin conditioning agent and preservative enhancer in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe and effective for use in personal care products. It helps to improve the efficacy of preservatives.
from the analysis of SheaMoisture Men Waves Pomade - Argan Oil & Shea ButterEthylhexylglycerin is a preservative and skin-conditioning agent. It helps to enhance the efficacy of other preservatives and provides moisturizing benefits. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of Sol De Janeiro Bom Dia Bright Body CreamFound in 25 products
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