Skincare Ingredient
Save ingredients to your skin profile and we'll use them when you look up products — instantly flagging what's reactive, neutral, or works well for your skin.
1,2-Hexanediol
In Skincare: Is 1,2-Hexanediol Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
1,2-Hexanediol is a synthetic ingredient that performs multiple functions in cosmetic formulations.
- 02
This ingredient acts as a preservative, solvent, humectant, and texture enhancer in skincare products.
- 03
1,2-Hexanediol exhibits antimicrobial activity against bacteria but does not demonstrate effectiveness against molds or fungi.
- 04
The CIR Expert Panel considers 1,2-Hexanediol to be non-sensitizing when used in typical cosmetic concentrations.
Key Benefits
What 1,2-Hexanediol does for your skin
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Role of 1,2-Hexanediol
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
SKIN CONDITIONING
Skin EnhancerMaintains skin in good condition and improves its feel
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Skin conditioning ingredients enhance appearance, texture, and health of skin through various mechanisms. This broad category encompasses emollients, humectants, occlusives, and other agents that improve skin feel, appearance, and function. May work by moisturizing, smoothing, softening, or protecting skin. Effects include improved tactile properties, enhanced barrier function, and better overall skin condition.
SOLVENT
Ingredient DissolverDissolves other ingredients to create uniform formulations
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Solvents dissolve, dilute, or disperse other ingredients creating homogeneous solutions. Water is universal solvent for hydrophilic ingredients. Organic solvents include ethanol (dissolves fragrances, some actives), propylene glycol, and glycerin. Selection based on polarity matching between solvent and solute. Mechanism involves disrupting intermolecular forces in solute and surrounding with solvent molecules. Critical for maintaining ingredient solubility and product stability.
Products
containing 1,2-Hexanediol
One-step login · Made for your skin
Want analysis that actually fits your skin?
Sign in once — we'll remember your skin type and make every analysis more relevant for you. for free!
Joined by people who care about their skin
References
Scientific sources
CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed March 2024, ePublication
International Journal of Toxicology, September-October 2012, pages 147S-168S
International Journal of Cosmetic Science, October 2011, pages 421-425
Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology, Volume 28, 2009, pages 23-24
Similar Ingredients
Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
1,2-Hexanediol — common questions
What is 1,2-Hexanediol in skincare?
1,2-Hexanediol is a skincare ingredient commonly used in cosmetic formulations.
What does 1,2-Hexanediol do? / Functions of 1,2-Hexanediol?
Common functions: SKIN CONDITIONING, SOLVENT.
What is the comedogenic rating of 1,2-Hexanediol? / Is 1,2-Hexanediol comedogenic?
The comedogenic rating of 1,2-Hexanediol has not been established in our database.
Does it clog pores?
Whether 1,2-Hexanediol clogs pores depends on the formulation and concentration.
Is 1,2-Hexanediol safe for skin?
1,2-Hexanediol has a safety rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: Low overall risk per CIR/industry safety assessments; generally well tolerated but may cause mild irritation/stinging in sensitive skin or at higher concentrations. Considered safe for use in cosmetic
Is 1,2-Hexanediol good for sensitive skin?
1,2-Hexanediol tolerance on sensitive skin varies by individual.
What are the side effects of 1,2-Hexanediol in skincare?
Known considerations: Low overall risk per CIR/industry safety assessments; generally well tolerated but may cause mild irritation/stinging in sensitive skin or at higher concentrations. Considered safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations. Limited safety data available for long-term or high-dose exposure.