Butylene Glycol

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.

Frequently asked questions

Related ingredients

• Pentylene GlycolHumectant
• Propylene GlycolHumectant
• UreaHumectant
• Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideEmollient
• Caprylyl GlycolPreservative
• CyclopentasiloxaneEmollient