HomeIngredient LibraryButylene Glycol

Humectant

Butylene Glycol

Butylene Glycol is a humectant, solvent, emollient, preservative booster used in cosmetic and personal-care formulation. Typical use level is 1%–10%. It is water-soluble. Stable in the pH 3–10 range.

At a glance

CAS number
107-88-0
INCI name
Butylene Glycol
Function
humectant, solvent, emollient, preservative booster
Typical use level
1%–10%
Solubility
water
Stable pH
3–10

CAS number and synonyms are sourced from PubChem. Function, usage levels, pH and compatibility are AI-assisted formulation guidance — verify against your supplier's technical data sheet and applicable regulations before use.

Also known as

Butane-1,3-diol 1,3-Butylene glycol Butylene glycol 1,3-Dihydroxybutane beta-Butylene glycol Methyltrimethylene glycol 1-Methyl-1,3-propanediol 1,3 Butylene glycol 1,3-Butandiol (RS)-1,3-Butandiol 1,3-Butylenglykol Caswell No. 128GG

Compatibility

Works well with:
Hyaluronic Acid Glycerin Niacinamide Panthenol Allantoin Sodium PCA Carbomer Xanthan Gum Phenoxyethanol Sodium Hyaluronate

Butylene Glycol is broadly compatible with the majority of cosmetic ingredients across a wide pH range. It functions as an effective co-solvent, aiding in the solubilization of actives and fragrance components, and can enhance the antimicrobial efficacy of preservatives such as phenoxyethanol. No significant incompatibilities are widely documented under normal formulation conditions.

Formulation notes

1,3-Butylene Glycol (CAS 107-88-0) is the most common cosmetic isomer. Generally regarded as safe at typical use levels up to ~10%; some studies cite usage up to 15% for specific applications. Mild skin sensitization potential is low. Can act as a penetration enhancer at higher concentrations, which should be considered when formulating with potent actives.

Related ingredients

Formulate with Butylene Glycol — first formula free

Tell us what you're making. We'll set you up in the AJ Cosmo Labs app with your idea loaded and your first AI formulation free.

Free to start · no credit card · we email you a link to pick up in the app.

Formulating with Butylene Glycol?

Connect with vetted cosmetic chemists and custom labs on AJ Cosmo Labs.

Get on the App Store