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INGREDIENT DICTIONARY

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Propanediol (1,3)

INCI: Propanediol | CAS #: 504-63-2
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Propanediol (1,3) is a cosmetic-grade humectant and solvent used to support hydration, improve skin feel, and enhance formulation performance. It is commonly used in water-based systems to reduce tack and improve overall sensory profile.

What is Propanediol (1,3) & why is it used?

Propanediol functions as both a humectant and solvent, helping to attract water while improving the distribution of ingredients within a formulation.

It is commonly used alongside glycerin to maintain hydration while delivering a smoother, less sticky skin feel.

QUALITY MATTERS

Why specification quality matters

This propanediol is a high-purity, fermentation-derived cosmetic grade ingredient with a verified assay of 99.96%. It is batch tested for consistency, low impurity profile, and reliable formulation performance. COA-backed specifications are available on request.

Solubility Water soluble
Primary function Humectant
Use level 1.0–5.0%

Behaviour in formulations

Propanediol is compatible with:

  • cold-process and heated systems
  • gels, emulsions, and surfactant-based formulations
  • a wide range of actives and functional ingredients

It is typically added to the water phase and mixes readily under standard processing conditions.

Sensory notes

Propanediol contributes a lightweight, smooth skin feel with reduced tack compared to glycerin at comparable use levels. It is commonly used to refine humectant systems, improving slip and overall sensory profile. Sensory outcome is formulation-dependent; bench testing is recommended.

Formulation considerations

PROCESSING

Add to the water phase with mixing until uniform. Suitable for cold-process and heated systems.

COMPATIBILITY
  • Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients
  • Works well in humectant systems with glycerin or pentylene glycol
  • Supports even distribution of actives
pH
Stable across typical cosmetic pH ranges (approx. 4–8).
FORMULATION EXAMPLES

Hydrating toner or mist

  • Propanediol: 2–4%
  • Primary humectant (e.g. glycerin): 2–3%
  • Actives as required
  • Preserved aqueous base to 100%

Improves hydration while maintaining a lightweight, low-tack skin feel.

Serum or gel system

  • Propanediol: 2–5%
  • Complementary humectants as required
  • Polymer thickener: as required
  • Neutralise and preserve appropriately

Supports hydration, improves slip, and enhances overall sensory balance.

Cream or lotion (emulsion)

  • Propanediol: 2–4% (water phase)
  • Emollients and emulsifier system as required
  • Preserved to finished formula

Contributes hydration and improves spreadability in face and body emulsions.

Use level considerations

Recommended range 1.0–5.0%
Suggested starting level 2–3% for most cosmetic formulations.%

At typical use levels (1–5%), propanediol provides effective hydration with a lighter, less tacky feel than glycerin.

At higher levels, it may influence viscosity and overall sensory feel, so balancing with other humectants is recommended.

Formulation summary

Propanediol is a versatile formulation ingredient that supports hydration while improving sensory profile. It is particularly useful in modern formulations where reduced tack and enhanced glide are desired.

Quality notes

This propanediol is a high-purity, fermentation-derived cosmetic grade ingredient with a verified assay of 99.96%. It is batch tested for consistency, low impurity profile, and reliable formulation performance. COA-backed specifications are available on request.