Let’s discuss Propanediol, a versatile chemical in many different types of cosmetics. The multipurpose component is safe for sensitive skin while hydrating and thoroughly cleaning the skin. As a result, you’ll see it listed on the ingredients of many cosmetics meant for the face and body.
What would the propanediol skincare benefits do for you? Just keep on scrolling down!
Propanediol: What Is It and How Does It Work?
Glycol derived from corn sugar is known as Propanediol and is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless liquid. You can confidently say it is a safer and more natural alternative to the often-used propylene glycol known to trigger skin irritation.
In skin care products, Propanediol serves as a humectant (retains moisture), solvent (dissolves other substances), and emollient (softens the skin). It can be found in several cosmetic products, including but not limited to: moisturizers, creams, lotions, cleansers, toners, antiperspirants, foundations, etc.
Where Did It Originate?
PDO is an acronym for a chemical compound from corn or petroleum. It may be transparent or have a very faint golden hue. It barely has any scent at all. Propanediol is likely to be included as an ingredient in virtually every cosmetics and personal care product category. This is because PDO is widely used.
In What Form Does It Appear On The Lists Of Ingredients?
Propanediol has many names. These are some of the most typical examples:
- 1,3-dihydroxy propane
- 1,3-propanediol
- 2-deoxyglycerol
- methyl propanediol
- propane-1,3-diol
- trimethylene glycol
It’s used in cosmetics as a moisturizer because it’s effective and cheap. It facilitates the skin’s rapid absorption of the product’s other ingredients. It also can dilute other active substances.
Propanediol’s Skin-Benefitting Properties
Seal Moisture
Propanediol is used as a moisturizing agent in various cosmetics and skincare products. Moisturizers containing this ingredient can draw moisture from the air and trap it on the skin. Your skin will be healthy and soft after using this.
Beneficial For Those Prone To Acne
Because of its powerful cleansing properties, Propanediol can get rid of grime and oil deep into the skin. This is excellent news for those who suffer from acne and sensitive skin, as it prevents pores from being blocked. Also, it cleans well without disturbing the skin’s pH balance.
Improves Skin Texture
Propanediol is a soothing agent. Damage to the skin is avoided because water loss is decreased. The result is skin that is noticeably more supple and soft. Dry-skinned persons will benefit significantly from this substance.
Serves As A Solvent
For chemicals like ferulic acid and salicylic acid that are notoriously difficult to dissolve, Propanediol is a lifesaver. It can dissolve practically any component needed for proper use. It’s shown to be a valuable tool for boosting the efficacy of various product compositions.
It Makes The Product Lighter
Propanediol in cosmetics and skincare helps make them feel airy and not oily. This facilitates the smooth application of skin care products and their speedy absorption into the skin.
Booster For Preservatives
Propanediol is used as an additive to many different types of cosmetic preservatives. It’s used to help the preservatives do their job better, keeping the product’s quality intact.
Lower Viscosity
Cleansers, conditioners, shampoos, sprays, makeup products, and body washes benefit from reduced viscosity thanks to Propanediol. It improves the formulations’ ability to penetrate the skin and provide their effects.
Better Absorption
Propanediol is an effective penetration enhancer that increases the skin’s receptivity to other chemicals and active substances. It can enhance the absorption of active compounds that are good for your hair and skin.
Which Cosmetics Does It Exist In?
The Environmental Working Group reports that PDO is commonly found in cosmetics for the face. However, it is also present in a variety of other cosmetics and toiletries, such as:
- antiperspirant
- eyeliner
- foundation
- hair color
- conditioner
- sunscreen
Propanediol Vs. Propylene Glycol
It’s understandable how propylene glycol and Propanediol (1,2- and 1,3-) could be mistaken for one another. Even though they have the same chemical formula, the two substances have different molecular structures, which affects how they work (as Wong explains, the alcohol group is attached differently).
While there is some structural similarity, the constituents are otherwise very different. Propanediol comes from grain, while propylene glycol comes from petroleum. Propanediol is often a propylene glycol substitute for people who prefer avoiding products with any glycols derived from oil. Some research claims that Propanediol is likely less sensitive and irritant to the skin.
Procedures for Using Propanediol
Since Propanediol is a component of many different skincare formulations, so there are multiple best methods for using it. Propanediol should be used according to the instructions included with the product. It is only normal to want to rinse off a cleanser containing Propanediol after a minute. It’s the same with moisturizers; you may even leave them on overnight.
Use the product strictly as recommended or as your dermatologist advises to get the best results. Most research suggests that Propanediol is safe to include in your skincare regimen unless you have highly sensitive skin.
Possible Adverse Effects of Propanediol
While Propanediol is generally safe, it may cause skin sensitivity in certain people. Propanediol is unlikely to cause skin irritation, according to a study published in 2010. There is little chance that you will experience any skin reaction to Propanediol.
Propanediol has received approval from the United States FDA for use in cosmetics and food. The Natural Product Association also gave its stamp of approval to Propanediol after a thorough review.
Keep in mind: if you have an allergy to Propanediol, you should stay away from it. If you’ve ever had an allergic reaction, you know you shouldn’t use it again. Always perform a small patch test first to avoid skin irritation and redness.
Summary
Studies have shown that Propanediol is safe for cosmetics and other personal care items; therefore, it can be used freely in this industry. It’s a multitasking skincare ingredient that helps the skin in numerous ways. It hydrates, smoothes, evens the skin tone, and slows the signs of aging. With its potential benefits, Propanediol may replace propylene glycol as the preferred ingredient in skincare and cosmetics.
Read also – 13 Best Remedies For Glowing Skin
