Propylene Glycol
Also known as: 1,2-propanediol, propane-1,2-diol, methyl ethyl glycol, PG
A synthetic liquid used as a humectant, solvent, and penetration enhancer in cosmetics. While considered safe at low concentrations, it is a skin irritant at higher levels and enhances absorption of other ingredients — including harmful ones.
1 = low concern, 10 = avoid
Risk by Usage Frequency
How risk changes depending on how often you use products containing Propylene Glycol.
Low risk at typical cosmetic concentrations.
Daily use as a penetration enhancer is concerning when paired with other harmful ingredients.
Moderate concern. Cumulative irritation and enhanced penetration of co-formulated ingredients.
Health Risks
Skin irritant and sensitizer at concentrations above 2%, causing redness, itching, and contact dermatitis.
Acts as a penetration enhancer, increasing absorption of all other ingredients — including toxic ones — through the skin.
In rare cases, high-concentration exposure can cause systemic toxicity, particularly in children and those with compromised skin barrier.
Contact Dermatitis, 2005 — propylene glycol sensitization review
Global Regulatory Status
How propylene glycol is regulated in cosmetics and personal care products around the world.
Why Brands Use Propylene Glycol
Attracts and retains moisture, improves product texture, and enhances the penetration of other active ingredients into the skin.
11
products in our database
8
brands use it
4
product categories
Better alternatives exist. Brands choose propylene glycol because it's cheap and effective, but safer options like vegetable glycerin, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera deliver similar results without the health concerns.
Propylene Glycol in Product Categories
Click a category to see every product containing propylene glycol in that category, with full ingredient breakdowns.
Products Containing Propylene Glycol
These popular products list propylene glycol in their ingredient labels. Tap any card to see the full ingredient breakdown and safety analysis.
The Worst Offender vs Numbrrrz
Here's how the lowest-scoring product containing propylene glycol compares to Numbrrrz.
Estée Lauder Resilience Multi-Effect Tri-Peptide Face and Neck Creme SPF 15
Estee Lauder
Numbrrrz
Organic Lip Balm
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Safe Alternatives
What Numbrrrz Uses Instead
Numbrrrz uses organic coconut oil and organic jojoba oil for natural moisture retention without synthetic humectants or penetration enhancers like propylene glycol.
