The Clean Sheet
Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan

Propanediol

1,3-Propanediol

Safety Notes

Corn-derived green alternative to propylene glycol and butylene glycol. Multifunctional humectant and solvent that also boosts the efficacy of preservative systems, allowing lower preservative loads. Very low irritation potential; suitable for sensitive-skin formulas.

Function & Common Use

Function

Humectant / Solvent / Viscosity control

Category

Solvent / Carrier

Common In

Serums, moisturisers, cleansers, toners, masks, deodorants

Origin

Plant-derived (corn sugar fermentation) or synthetic

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No specific limit; use at self-determined safe level per safety assessment

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked

Baby restriction: None identified for standard cosmetic use

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Propanediol safe to use in skincare?

Propanediol has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Corn-derived green alternative to propylene glycol and butylene glycol. Multifunctional humectant and solvent that also boosts the efficacy of preservative systems, allowing lower preservative loads. Very low irritation potential; suitable for sensitive-skin formulas.

Is Propanediol allowed in India?

Propanediol is currently classified as "Permitted; regulated as a cosmetic ingredient under CR 2020" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is No specific limit under CR 2020 in source checked.

What is Propanediol used for in cosmetics?

Propanediol functions as: Humectant / Solvent / Viscosity control. It is commonly found in: Serums, moisturisers, cleansers, toners, masks, deodorants.

Is Propanediol safe for babies?

Propanediol has baby/child restrictions: None identified for standard cosmetic use. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted; regulated as a cosmetic ingredient under CR 2020
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted; no specific 21 CFR cosmetic restriction identified in source checked
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted; no specific MFDS restriction identified in source checked
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic ingredient under AICIS; standard framework applies; no therapeutic listing unless therapeutic claims made
Canada (NHPID)
Not listed as restricted on Health Canada Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist in source checked; standard cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS504-63-2
EC207-997-3

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Analyse a Product

Products containing Propanediol

Reviewed by The Clean Sheet, with our verdict.

Niacinamide 10% Face Serum
MinimalistMostly Clean
AHA 25% + PHA 5% + BHA 2% Face Peel
MinimalistClean Sheet Approved
Vitamin C + E & Hyaluronic Acid Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++
Dot & KeyClean Sheet Approved
Strawberry Bright 10% Niacinamide Serum
Dot & KeyClean Sheet Approved
Strawberry Dew Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA++++
Dot & KeyClean Sheet Approved
Calendula Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner
Kiehl'sMostly Clean
Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque
Kiehl'sMostly Clean
2% Hyaluronic Acid Serum
PilgrimMostly Clean

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