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Pentylene Glycol
Commonly known as:
Pentylene glycol, 1,2-pentanediol, Pentane-1,2-diol, 1,2-dihydroxypentane.
I.N.C.I. list name:
Pentylene Glycol.
Extraction process:
Biotechnology.
Source:
Plant-based.
Botanical name:
Saccharum officinarum (sugar cane)/Zea mays (corn).
Family:
Poaceae (Grasses).
Part of the plant extracted:
Bagasse (fibrous residue from sugarcane) and cobs (corn).
Provenance, origin:
United States.
Chemical characteristics:
Colourless Dialcool; Low viscosity; Density: 0.966 - 0.976 g/cm3; Soluble in water, ethanol, and oil; Molecular mass: 104.15 g/mol; Refractive index: 1.4340 – 1.4440.
Characteristics:
Colloidal solution, true solution, balm, emulsion.
Dosage required in cosmetic products:
From 0.5 to 5.0%.
Function:
Skin maintenance agent, solvent.
Properties:
Humectant, antibacterial, emollient, preservative, solvent.
Benefits:
All skin types, particularly beneficial for dry and dehydrated skin; All hair types.
Details
Usage
Facial Care (creams, serums, masks, gels, lotions);
Body Care (shower gels, moisturising lotions, hand and foot balms);
Haircare treatments (shampoos, conditioners, masks, balms).
Means of Preservation
Store at room temperature and in a dry place in well-sealed containers.
Contraindications, Usage Precautions
Following the recommendations (0.5 to 5%), pentylene glycol does not cause any irritation or allergic reactions on the skin. It demonstrates a very good skin compatibility. However, it can be irritating to the eyes.
Find out more
Pentylene glycol is primarily used as a solvent, meaning it aids in the solubilisation of ingredients within a formula. A few years ago, only the synthetic version derived from mineral oils was available and used in cosmetic care. Today, it is also available in a plant-based version, particularly in natural and/or certified organic products. It is then extracted from renewable plant sources such as corn or sugar cane.
