Butylene glycol, 1 L

Butylene Glycol (1,3-Butanediol): The Multifunctional Solubilizer and Humectant

Introducing Butylene Glycol (INCI: Butylene Glycol), a high-purity, versatile ingredient sourced from Germany. This clear, slightly viscous liquid is a staple across the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries. It is completely water-soluble and known for its exceptional capabilities as a humectant, solvent, penetration enhancer, and stabilizer. With a neutral pH range of 6.0–7.0, Butylene Glycol integrates smoothly into virtually any water-based formulation, offering superior performance and compatibility.

Product Description and Core Properties

Butylene Glycol (also known as 1,3-Butanediol) is a diol alcohol that functions primarily as a powerful humectant, drawing moisture into the skin and preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Its low molecular weight allows it to enhance the delivery of active ingredients, acting as an effective penetration enhancer. Beyond skincare, its solvent properties are invaluable for dissolving extracts, pigments, and fragrances, ensuring uniformity and stability in complex formulas.

Key properties and benefits:

• Superior Humectancy: Effectively hydrates the skin, boosting elasticity, smoothness, and flexibility.

• Penetration Enhancer: Improves the bioavailability and absorption of other active substances into the skin and hair.

• Solvent and Dispersant: Excellent for dissolving pigments and fragrances, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the product.

• Emulsion Stabilizer: Helps to stabilize emulsions, preventing phase separation and extending product shelf life.

• Preservative Booster: Enhances the efficacy of preservatives and anti-bacterial agents, often allowing for lower concentrations of traditional preservatives.

• Irritation Reducer: Minimizes the irritating effects of surfactants (SLA) in cleansing products like shampoos and shower gels.

• Excellent Compatibility: Highly compatible with the vast majority of cosmetic raw materials, essential for complex formulations.

Applications and Usage Areas

Butylene Glycol's multifunctional nature makes it a foundational ingredient utilized across multiple global industries.

1. Cosmetic and Personal Care:

• Skincare (Creams, Serums, Toners, Masks): Used as a primary humectant and solvent in anti-aging creams, serums, and hydrating tonics. Dosage: 2–10%. It softens the skin and provides a silky feel.

• Hair Care (Shampoos, Conditioners, Balms): Reduces the harshness of surfactants, acts as a solvent for hair actives, and helps retain moisture in hair fibers. Dosage: up to 10%.

• Decorative Cosmetics: Ensures uniform application of pigments in liquid foundations, eyeliners, and lip products. Dosage: 1–5%.

• Cleansing Products (Shower Gels, Liquid Soap, Hydrophilic Oils): Improves lather texture and reduces skin irritation.

2. Pharmaceutical and Dermatological Use:

• Topical Formulations: Acts as a stabilizer and solvent for herbal extracts, vitamins, and active components in external medicinal forms, such as ointments, gels, antiseptic solutions, and dermatological creams. Dosage: 1–15%.

• Bioavailability: Increases the bioavailability of active ingredients, making the medicinal product more effective.

3. Food Industry (E1520 Additive):

• Flavor and Emulsion Stabilizer: Used as a stabilizer of flavor and aroma in food emulsions, syrups, non-alcoholic beverages, and desserts. Approved as a food additive E1520. Dosage: up to 2%.

4. Household and Industrial Chemistry:

• Liquid Detergents and Cleaners: Included in liquid cleaning gels, polishes, fabric softeners, and air fresheners as a solvent and moisture-retaining agent to prevent crystallization. Dosage: up to 20% (for high-concentration applications).

Recommended Dosage:

• General Cosmetics: 1% to 10%.

• Serums and Tonics: 2%–5%.

• Creams, Shampoos, Gels: up to 10%.

• Pharmaceuticals: 1%–15%.

Recipe: Ultra-Hydrating Facial Toner/Mist

Formulate a simple, yet highly effective moisturizing toner using Butylene Glycol to enhance hydration and improve the penetration of subsequent skincare products.

Ingredients:

• 89 g Distilled Water or Hydrosol (e.g., Rose Water)

• 5 g Butylene Glycol

• 3 g Glycerin

• 2 g Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

• 1 g Preservative (e.g., Cosgard)

Instructions for Preparation:

Combine the Liquid Base: In a clean, sanitized beaker, combine the Distilled Water/Hydrosol, Butylene Glycol, and Glycerin. Stir gently until fully mixed.

Dissolve the Active: Slowly add the Niacinamide powder to the liquid mixture. Butylene Glycol acts as a solvent, aiding in the complete and rapid dissolution of the Niacinamide. Continue stirring until the solution is clear.

Add the Preservative: Introduce the preservative and stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Final Check: Measure the pH to ensure it is within a skin-friendly range (typically 5.0–6.0). Adjust with a few drops of Lactic Acid if necessary.

Packaging: Pour the finished toner into a sterilized bottle with a fine mist spray cap or disc top.

Recommendations:

• Penetration: The 5% Butylene Glycol concentration ensures the Niacinamide and Glycerin penetrate the skin more effectively, boosting their benefits.

• Texture: The addition of Butylene Glycol gives the toner a smoother, less watery feel, improving application.

• Usage: Apply to the face after cleansing using a cotton pad or by misting directly onto the skin. Follow with a serum or cream.