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HEXYLENE GLYCOL

Last update on May 5, 2023
Hexylene Glycol is a clear, colorless liquid that is used in many personal care and cosmetic formulations. It largely acts as a solvent, humectant, and viscosity agent. Decades of research have established Hexylene Glycol as a safe and effective ingredient. It dissolves other ingredients in a product and enhances its stability and texture. It also has a low viscosity that makes it easier to incorporate. The chemical formula of Hexylene Glycol is C6H14O2.
CAS Number: 107-41-5Chem/IUPAC Name: 2-Methylpentane-2,4-diolEINECS/ELINCS No: 203-489-0COSING REF No: 34283

Products with HEXYLENE GLYCOL

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Granactive Powder-1423

by Grant Industries

INCI: AQUA | CAPRYLYL GLYCOL | HEXYLENE GLYCOL | MEL EXTRACT | MICA | PHENOXYETHANOL | POTASSIUM SORBATE | SILICA | TETRAPEPTIDE-14
  • Sustainable option

SynerCide Asian Fusion

by Active Micro Technologies

INCI: ALLIUM SATIVUM BULB EXTRACT | AQUA | CAPRYLYL GLYCOL | HEXYLENE GLYCOL | WASABIA JAPONICA ROOT EXTRACT | ZINGIBER OFFICINALE ROOT EXTRACT
  • Sustainable option

What is HEXYLENE GLYCOL used for?

Hexylene Glycol serves many functional benefits in skin care, hair care, and cosmetic products.
  • Skin care: It is primarily used in skin care to improve the sensory feel and texture of the products. It also attracts and retains moisture on the surface of the skin, keeping it hydrated and nourished. It is often found in products like toners and cleansers
  • Hair care: It is used as a viscosity agent and solvent to improve the texture and stability of formulations. It also acts as an emollient in shampoos and conditioners to provide hydration to the shafts
  • Cosmetic products: It works to dissolve other ingredients present in a formulation and enhance the texture of the final product. Since it has low viscosity, it is a useful ingredient in products like foundations, primers, and concealers

Origin

Hexylene Glycol is typically synthesized by the reaction of ethylene oxide with n-butanol or by the hydration of 1,5-hexadiene. It is later purified by distillation or other methods to obtain the final Hexylene Glycol.

What does HEXYLENE GLYCOL do in a formulation?

HUMECTANT|
SOLVENT|
VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Safety Profile

Hexylene Glycol is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. It does not cause skin irritation and sensitization and is not known to be comedogenic. However, as with any ingredient, some individuals may have an allergic reaction or sensitivity to it, so it is always recommended to patch test products before use. Lastly, Hexylene Glycol is vegan and can be considered halal, but it is best to check with the supplier.

HEXYLENE GLYCOL alternatives

HEXYLENE GLYCOL technical profile

Property Values
Boiling Point 197.5°C
Melting Point -50°C
pH 7.0
Solubility Highly soluble in water
Viscosity Low