Ethylhexylglycerin: Multifunctional Cosmetic Additive & Preservative Enhancer

Technical Introduction

Ethylhexylglycerin (INCI: Ethylhexylglycerin) is a synthetic derivative of glycerin widely used in cosmetics and personal care products. It functions primarily as a skin-conditioning agent, emollient, deodorizing additive, and preservative enhancer.

• Chemical Name: 3-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-1,2-propanediol

• CAS Number: 70445-33-9

• Chemical Family: Alkyl glyceryl ethers

• Mode of Action:

  • Antimicrobial booster — weakly antimicrobial on its own, but significantly enhances the efficacy of preservatives like phenoxyethanol, parabens, or organic acids.

  • Deodorant function — inhibits odor-causing bacteria by interfering with bacterial cell membranes.

  • Skin conditioning — provides smooth, non-greasy skin feel.

Applications

• Cosmetics & Personal Care

  • Skin creams, lotions, serums

  • Shampoos, conditioners, hair sprays

  • Deodorants and antiperspirants

  • Baby care products

  • Makeup products

• Preservation Systems

  • Used in “paraben-free” and “formaldehyde-free” formulations as part of mild preservative blends.

  • Often combined with phenoxyethanol (e.g., the commercial blend “Euxyl® PE 9010”).

• Dermatological Preparations

  • Incorporated into medicated creams and gels due to low irritation potential.

✅ Advantages

• Mild & skin-friendly compared to stronger preservatives.

• Preservative boosting effect reduces the need for high concentrations of traditional preservatives.

• Excellent deodorizing activity without blocking pores.

• Moisturizing & emollient properties for improved skin feel.

• Stable over a wide pH range (4–8) → suitable for most cosmetic formulations.

• Versatile solubility in both water and oil systems with emulsifiers.

• Suitable for sensitive-skin products, including baby care.

⚙️ Specifications (Typical Technical Parameters)

⚠️ Safety & Regulatory Notes

• Safety Profile:

  • Considered safe and non-irritating at recommended use levels.

  • Suitable for sensitive skin formulations.

• Regulatory Status:

  • Approved for cosmetic use in EU, US (FDA), Japan, China, and other regions.

  • Not subject to maximum concentration restrictions (used as multifunctional additive rather than primary preservative).

• Irritation Potential: Very low compared to parabens or isothiazolinones.

❓ FAQ

Q1: Is ethylhexylglycerin a preservative?
Not exactly. It is a preservative enhancer — mildly antimicrobial on its own, but primarily boosts the performance of other preservatives.

Q2: Why is ethylhexylglycerin common in “paraben-free” products?
Because it provides gentle preservation support while avoiding controversial parabens and formaldehyde-releasers.

Q3: Can ethylhexylglycerin replace preservatives entirely?
No. It is usually used in combination with stronger preservatives such as phenoxyethanol, organic acids, or benzyl alcohol.

Q4: Is it safe for sensitive skin and baby products?
Yes. Due to its low irritation potential, it is widely used in sensitive-skin creams, baby wipes, and baby lotions.

Q5: How does ethylhexylglycerin work in deodorants?
It suppresses odor-causing bacteria on skin without interfering with natural perspiration, making it a gentle alternative to antiperspirants.