Skincare Ingredient
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Ethylhexylglycerin
In Skincare: Is Ethylhexylglycerin Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Ethylhexylglycerin is a skin-softening ingredient that also provides mild humectant properties, helping to boost hydration.
- 02
This ingredient functions as a preservative and contributes to the stability of cosmetic formulations.
- 03
In deodorants, ethylhexylglycerin inhibits odor-causing bacteria.
- 04
Ethylhexylglycerin has a demonstrated history of safe use in cosmetic products.
- 05
As a raw material, ethylhexylglycerin appears as a pale to colorless liquid.
Key Benefits
What Ethylhexylglycerin does for your skin
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Data & Research
Scientific Facts
Common Uses
Formulation in Ethylhexylglycerin
Role of Ethylhexylglycerin
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
DEODORANT
Odor NeutralizerMasks or neutralizes body odor
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Deodorants combat body odor through antimicrobial action against odor-causing bacteria (Corynebacterium, Staphylococcus), odor absorption/adsorption, enzymatic inhibition, or masking with fragrance. Active ingredients include antimicrobials, odor absorbers (zinc ricinoleate, cyclodextrins), and fragrances. They prevent bacterial conversion of sweat components into volatile malodorous compounds without reducing sweat volume.
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.
Products
containing Ethylhexylglycerin
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References
Scientific sources
PLoS One, October 2016, ePublication
Contact Dermatitis, May 2016, pages 281-288
International Journal of Toxicology, September 2013, pages 5S-21S
Personal Care, 2008, pages 1-4
Cosmetic Science Technology, 2006, pages 1-11
Similar Ingredients
Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ethylhexylglycerin — common questions
What is Ethylhexylglycerin in skincare?
Ethylhexylglycerin is an alkyl glyceryl ether. This means it’s formed by attaching an ethylhexyl group to glycerin through an ether linkage. Other alkyl glyceryl ethers, such as Batyl Alcohol, Chimyl Alcohol (also known as Cetyl Glyceryl Ether), Glyceryl Lauryl Ether, and Isostearyl Glyceryl Ether, are used as alternative names for this type of ingredient in cosmetic formulations. All these compounds consist of an alkyl group linked to glycerin via an ether bond. Ethylhexylglycerin and the other
What does Ethylhexylglycerin do? / Functions of Ethylhexylglycerin?
Common functions: DEODORANT, SKIN CONDITIONING.
What is the comedogenic rating of Ethylhexylglycerin? / Is Ethylhexylglycerin comedogenic?
Ethylhexylglycerin has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. A rating of 1 means it is unlikely to clog pores.
Does it clog pores?
Ethylhexylglycerin is unlikely to clog pores (rating 1/5).
Is Ethylhexylglycerin safe for skin?
Ethylhexylglycerin has a safety rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: Generally considered safe as a preservative booster (CIR); low sensitization risk but can cause mild irritation/stinging in some sensitive skin or eye-area products. Ethylhexylglycerin has a low comed
Is Ethylhexylglycerin good for sensitive skin?
Ethylhexylglycerin has an irritancy rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally well-tolerated.
What are the side effects of Ethylhexylglycerin in skincare?
Known considerations: Generally considered safe as a preservative booster (CIR); low sensitization risk but can cause mild irritation/stinging in some sensitive skin or eye-area products. Ethylhexylglycerin has a low comedogenic potential and is generally well-tolerated, though individuals with very sensitive skin may experience occasional irritation; safety assessments indicate it is non-toxic and non-mutagenic.