Mild skin irritant at high concentrations (>30%); well tolerated at cosmetic use levels; patch test allergen in some individuals; considered safe at typical use levels
Function & Common Use
Solvent / Humectant / Viscosity controlling
Solvent / Carrier
Moisturisers, cleansers, hair products, sunscreens
Synthetic
Concentration Limits
No limit
No limit
No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked; EU limit reference: No
No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category
Baby restriction: Flag in baby products above 2%
Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Propylene Glycol safe to use in skincare?
Propylene Glycol has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Mild skin irritant at high concentrations (>30%); well tolerated at cosmetic use levels; patch test allergen in some individuals; considered safe at typical use levels
Is Propylene Glycol allowed in India?
Propylene Glycol is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.
What is Propylene Glycol used for in cosmetics?
Propylene Glycol functions as: Solvent / Humectant / Viscosity controlling. It is commonly found in: Moisturisers, cleansers, hair products, sunscreens.
Is Propylene Glycol safe for babies?
Propylene Glycol has baby/child restrictions: Flag in baby products above 2%. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies
Identifiers
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Reviewed by The Clean Sheet, with our verdict.