Penetration enhancer and humectant that can cause both irritant and allergic contact dermatitis. Disrupts stratum corneum lipid packing at concentrations above 10%, increasing absorption of co-applied substances including allergens.
The research
Propylene Glycol is a penetration enhancer backed by a moderate body of supporting evidence (evidence tier 2 of 4). We track 2 studies for it, 1 reporting a positive effect.
Read the research — 2 studiesHide the research
Propylene glycol sensitivity and recommendations for atopic patients: a clinical review
Q85
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology · 2008 · systematic review
Clinical review: propylene glycol causes both irritant contact dermatitis (at concentrations >10%) and type IV allergic contact dermatitis; atopic patients are at 2-3x higher risk of sensitization; at cosmetic concentrations (1-5%), irritant reactions are more common than allergic; recommends propylene glycol-free alternatives for eczema-prone patients
IVDK multicentre analysis (n=45,138 patients patch-tested with 20% propylene glycol, 1992-2002): 2.3% positive, but reactions were largely weak, doubtful or irritant and many positives likely false-positive; the authors conclude propylene glycol is at most a very weak contact sensitizer with a mainly irritant reaction profile.
Products with Propylene Glycol
In 1,338 products — most often serums (427), moisturizers (354), sunscreens (196), from $3.00 to $550.45. Set up a profile to rank these for your skin. Click any product to learn more.
SkinCeuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub (5 fl. oz.) is a exfoliant by SkinCeuticals. Key ingredients include Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine.
Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash (200ml) is a water cleanser by ELEMIS. Key ingredients include Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine.
Wella Professionals Care Oil Reflections Luminous Reboost Mask 150ml is a antioxidant serum by Wella Professionals Care. Key ingredients include Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Panthenol.
Lancôme Advanced Génifique Youth Activating Serum 100ml is a antioxidant serum by Lancôme. Key ingredients include Glycerin, Alcohol Denat, Dimethicone.
