Butylene Glycol is a widely utilized organic compound in cosmetic product formulations, valued for its multifunctionality. It acts as a solvent, humectant, and skin-conditioning agent. This colorless, odorless liquid, derived from petroleum, facilitates the penetration of active ingredients into the skin and supports moisture retention. It is commonly incorporated in skincare products like creams, lotions, and serums due to its lightweight, non-greasy properties, contributing to smooth application finishes.
CAS Number: 107-88-0
Molecular Formula: C4H10O2
Synonyms:
- Methyltrimethylene glycol
- Butane-1,3-diol
- 1,3-Butylene glycol
- 1,3-Dihydroxybutane
- BUTANEDIOL,1,3-
+ 24 more…
- (+/-)-1,3-Butanediol
- 1-Methyl-1,3-propanediol
- BUTANE-1,3-DIOL (USP-RS)
- 1,3-Butylenglykol
- 1,3-Butanediol, (R)-
- 1,3-Butanediol, (S)-
- (R)-1,3-butanediol
- MFCD00004554
- (S)-(+)-1,3-Butylene Glycol
- MFCD00064278
- 1.3-butanediol
- DL-1,3-butanediol
- racemic 1,3-butanediol
- 1,3-Butanediol 100 microg/mL in Acetonitrile
- EINECS 203-529-7
- BRN 1731276
- DTXSID8026773
- CHEBI:52683
- AI3-11077
- DTXCID306773
- HSDB 153
- NSC 402145
- UNII-3XUS85K0RA
- EC 203-529-7
Properties of Butylene Glycol
Chemical Identifiers
| EC Number | 203-529-7 |
| UNII | 3XUS85K0RA |
| InChIKey | PUPZLCDOIYMWBV-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
| SMILES | CC(CCO)O |
| IUPAC Name | butane-1,3-diol |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C4H10O2/c1-4(6)2-3-5/h4-6H,2-3H2,1H3 |
Physical and Chemical Properties
Butylene Glycol is a clear, low-viscosity, and hygroscopic liquid that belongs to the glycol family. Its chemical structure is defined by the formula C4H10O2. It exhibits a slightly sweet taste and is highly soluble in water, ethanol, and organic solvents.
The compound has a boiling point of ~198°C and a melting point of -60°C. These properties, along with its moisturizing and absorption-enhancing capabilities, make it a valuable ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products.
| Property | Value |
| LogP | -0.290 |
| Odor | Practically odorless |
| Taste | Sweet flavor with bitter aftertaste |
| Density | 1.0053 g/cu cm at 20 °C |
| Viscosity | 96 cSt at 25 °C |
| Color/Form | Viscous liquid |
| Solubility | Miscible with water |
| Flash Point | 121 °C |
| Boiling Point | 207.5 °C |
| Decomposition | When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes. |
| Melting Point | < -50 °C |
| Vapor Density | Relative vapor density (air = 1): 3.2 |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.02 [mmHg] |
| Surface Tension | 37.8 dynes/cm at 25 °C |
| Optical Rotation | -18.8 deg at 25 °C/D (ethanol) /(R)-(-)isomer/ |
| Refractive Index | 1.4401 at 20 °C |
| Heat of Vaporization | 16.2 kcal/mol at 25 °C |
| Dissociation Constants | pKa = 15.1 at 25 °C |
| Kovats Retention Index | 777 |
| Autoignition Temperature | 741 °F (393 °C) |
| Other Experimental Properties | 1 gal weighs 8.398 lb at room temp; dielectric constant: 28.8 at 25 °C. Very hygroscopic, will absorb 38.5 wt % of water within 144 hrs at 81% relative humidity. |
Structural Properties
Butylene Glycol is a moderately complex molecule with a stable, neutral structure. It doesn’t carry any charge and is composed of 31 heavy atoms. The compound is flexible due to several rotatable bonds, but it doesn’t form hydrogen bonds easily. It has a small polar surface area, meaning it’s only slightly water-attracting. The structure is clearly defined, with no chiral centers or stereochemistry involved, making it straightforward in shape and behavior.
| Property | Value |
| XLogP3 | -0.4 |
| Complexity | 28.7 |
| Exact Mass | 90.068079557 g/mol |
| Formal Charge | 0 |
| Heavy Atom Count | 6 |
| Molecular Weight | 90.12 g/mol |
| Monoisotopic Mass | 90.068079557 g/mol |
| Isotope Atom Count | 0 |
| Rotatable Bond Count | 2 |
| Compound Is Canonicalized | Yes |
| Hydrogen Bond Donor Count | 2 |
| Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count | 2 |
| Covalently-Bonded Unit Count | 1 |
| Topological Polar Surface Area | 40.5 Ų |
| Defined Atom Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Defined Bond Stereocenter Count | 0 |
| Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count | 1 |
| Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count | 0 |
Uses of Butylene Glycol in Cosmetics
Functional role in cosmetics:
- Butylene Glycol is used as a humectant and solvent agent in cosmetics.
Other uses:
- Used in shampoos and conditioners as a conditioning agent and solvent for active ingredients.
- Acts as a carrier or base to evenly disperse fragrance compounds.
- Offers mild hydration and improves product clarity and consistency.
Cosmetic Products Containing Butylene Glycol
Recent products using Butylene Glycol in their cosmetic formulations
- Modere Mouth Rinse REFRESH
- Henry Rose Body Cream, Windows Down
- CONCIO All in One Milk Cream
- LEORA Glow Revitalizing Serum Toner
- Dr. Louie Revitalizing All-in-One Essence
- Estee Lauder Nutritious Melting Soft Creme/Mask
- SeSpring So Revitalizing Serum
- GAONDODAM Pure Tint Lip Balm Pink
- Solara Suncare Fortune Teller Brightening Sunscreen Serum, SPF 30
Top companies using Butylene Glycol in their cosmetic products
- Modere
- Henry Rose
- CONCIO
- LEORA
- Dr. Louie
- Estee Lauder
- SeSpring
- GAONDODAM
- Solara
How Butylene Glycol Works in Formulations
Butylene Glycol is a versatile ingredient in cosmetics, used primarily as a humectant, solvent, and skin conditioning agent. It enhances moisture retention, improves product texture, and stabilizes formulations.
Ideal Concentration and Benefits in Different Formulations
Humectant and Moisture Retention
Butylene Glycol draws water into the skin, providing hydration and contributing to a smoother, more moisturized appearance.
- Concentration: 1%–10%
- Benefit: It helps in maintaining the product’s integrity by preventing water loss, making it ideal for lotions, creams, and serums. It acts as a humectant, helping skin look smoother and more hydrated.
Solvent and Texture Enhancer
This ingredient is an excellent solvent for active ingredients, enhancing their solubility and efficacy. It is commonly used in liquid formulations like serums, toners, and perfumes.
- Concentration: 1%–10%
- Benefit: It improves the overall texture of products, giving them a smooth and non-greasy feel.
Stabilizer for Active Ingredients
Butylene Glycol helps stabilize and preserve the effectiveness of some active ingredients in formulations.
- Concentration: 1%–5%
- Benefit: Helps incorporate solvate ingredients into water-based systems.
Compatibility with Other Ingredients
Butylene Glycol is generally compatible with most cosmetic ingredients, including emulsifiers, surfactants, and thickeners. However, it can interact with ingredients like acids or alcohols, which may affect the final texture or performance of the product.
Stability and Shelf Life
Butylene Glycol improves the stability of cosmetic products by acting as a solvent and humectant. It helps preserve moisture balance and protects formula integrity over time.
- Shelf life: 2–3 years
- Best storage: Store in a cool, dry place, tightly sealed
Formulation Challenges and Troubleshooting
Butylene Glycol, while widely used and versatile, presents several formulation challenges that require attention for optimal performance:
Viscosity Issues
Butylene Glycol can impact the viscosity of a formulation, making it thinner or altering the product’s overall texture.
Solution: Adjust the concentration of Butylene Glycol to maintain the desired consistency. In some cases, add thickeners or emulsifiers to achieve the desired viscosity.
Incompatibility with High Acids
Butylene Glycol can sometimes interact with highly acidic ingredients, altering the pH or causing instability.
Solution: Monitor the pH of the formulation and use buffering agents, like citric acid or sodium citrate, to stabilize the pH if acidic ingredients are involved.
Sensory Issues
At high concentrations, Butylene Glycol can create a sticky or tacky feeling on the skin, which can be unpleasant in some products.
Solution: Keep Butylene Glycol concentrations below 10%, or combine it with other skin-conditioning agents like glycerin or pentylene glycol to reduce stickiness.
Skin Sensitivity
While generally considered safe, some individuals may experience skin irritation or sensitivity to Butylene Glycol, particularly in leave-on products.
Solution: Conduct patch testing for sensitive skin formulations. Consider lowering the concentration of Butylene Glycol or using a more skin-friendly humectant like glycerin if irritation occurs.
Evaporation Issues in Aerosols
Butylene Glycol’s volatility can cause it to evaporate too quickly in aerosol or spray formulations, potentially affecting performance or stability.
Solution: Use lower volatility solvents or encapsulate the Butylene Glycol to control its evaporation rate in spray formulations.
Is Butylene Glycol Safe in Cosmetics?
Safety reports for Butylene Glycol are given below:
- Annual Review of Cosmetic Ingredient Safety Assessments—2004/2005. Download PDF
- Final Report on the Safety Assessment of Butylene Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Ethoxydiglycol, and Dipropylene Glycol. Download PDF
Regulatory Considerations for Using Butylene Glycol in Cosmetic Formulations
Few regulatory considerations are to be taken into account before using Butylene Glycol as an ingredient. Given below is the list of those regulations:
FDA Requirements
1,3-Butylene glycol (1,3-butanediol) is approved for use in food under specific conditions:
(a) The substance must meet the following standards:
(1) Content of 1,3-Butylene glycol: At least 99 percent purity.
(2) Specific gravity at 20/20°C: 1.004 to 1.006.
(3) Distillation range: Between 200°C and 215°C.
(b) The minimum quantity required to achieve the intended effect must be used.
(c) It is permitted as a solvent for natural and synthetic flavoring agents unless standards of identity under section 401 of the Act prohibit such usage.
FIFRA Requirements
As mandated by FIFRA, the EPA reviews older pesticides to assess their health and environmental risks and decide on their continued use under current safety standards, including those outlined in the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996. Under this review program, substances are categorized based on potential human exposure and associated risks.
Butylene Glycol, listed in List D, is a lower-concern category. Case No: 4016; Status: ‘Cancelled.’ No active pesticide products currently include Butylene Glycol. Registration cancellation may occur voluntarily by producers or by EPA determination of unreasonable adverse effects. Active ingredient (AI): Butylene Glycol; AI Status: No longer in registered pesticide products.
Atmospheric Standards
Performance standards are set for controlling volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). These standards mandate the use of best demonstrated systems to reduce VOC emissions from newly constructed, modified, or reconstructed units. 1,3-Butylene glycol is produced as an intermediate or final product within these regulated process units.
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
1,3-Butylene glycol does not hold individual approval but can be utilized under relevant group standards.
Butylene Glycol Side Effects
1,3-Butylene glycol primarily poses risk upon eye exposure, causing severe stinging relieved by water irrigation. While not irritating to skin or mucous membranes, studies reveal central nervous system effects in animals when used as a carbohydrate replacement.
Fetotoxic effects and potential impacts on male fertility have also been observed in rodent studies. No genotoxicity has been identified, and acute toxicity remains low. These findings underline the importance of cautious application and formulation in product development.
Potential risks
Given below is the list of potential side effects associated with the use of Butylene Glycol in cosmetics:
- Solvent-induced acute toxic effects (Acute Poisoning)
Symptoms
- Eye Exposure: Causes stinging and redness.
- Skin Exposure: May result in redness.
- Inhalation Exposure: Can lead to coughing.
Interactions
Studies in rats demonstrate potentiated cholestatic responses to taurolithocholate or manganese-bilirubin injections when maintained on 1,3-butanediol. Hyperbilirubinemia was enhanced, but bile flow depression was not significantly altered in interactions with alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate.
Adverse Effects
Butylene Glycol exposure has been linked to neurotoxic effects, including acute solvent syndrome, which impacts the central nervous system.
Exposure Routes
Inhalation of vapor allows for absorption into the body.
Carcinogen Classification
No evidence of carcinogenicity in humans (not listed by IARC).
Antidote and Emergency Treatment
Immediate First Aid
Ensure thorough decontamination. If breathing is impaired, initiate artificial respiration using a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask. Perform CPR as needed. Flush eyes with water immediately and thoroughly. Avoid inducing vomiting; if it occurs, position the patient to maintain an open airway. Keep the individual calm and regulate body temperature. Seek medical attention promptly.
Basic Treatment
Maintain an open airway, using oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal techniques as necessary. Suction airways if required. Administer oxygen via a nonrebreather mask at 10-15 L/min. Monitor for shock or pulmonary edema and manage accordingly.
For eye contamination, irrigate with 0.9% saline continuously during transport. Avoid using emetics. Ingestion cases should involve rinsing the mouth and administering water for dilution (5 mL/kg, up to 200 mL). Administer activated charcoal for ingestion cases.
Advanced Treatment
Consider airway management with intubation for unconscious patients or those experiencing severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques may be applied. Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias. Use saline or lactated Ringer’s solution for hypovolemia.
Vasopressors may be required for hypotension with normal fluid volume. Monitor for fluid overload and hypoglycemia, administering dextrose as needed. Treat seizures with appropriate medications such as diazepam or lorazepam. Use local anesthetics like proparacaine hydrochloride for facilitating eye irrigation.
Environmental and Sustainability Impact
Butylene Glycol is a widely used solvent and humectant in cosmetics, derived from petroleum or bio-based sources. While it provides beneficial effects in formulations, its environmental impact should be considered:
Environmental Impact
- Water Pollution: Butylene Glycol is water-soluble and can be readily biodegraded in the environment. However, if released in large quantities, it may contribute to oxygen depletion in aquatic environments.
- Carbon Footprint: The production of Butylene Glycol from petroleum feedstocks has a moderate carbon footprint. Bio-based versions have a lower impact, but the overall environmental cost depends on the production process.
Sustainability
Butylene Glycol’s sustainability depends on its source and production methods.
- Raw Materials: Typically derived from petroleum, but it can also be produced from renewable plant-based sources, reducing its environmental impact.
- Energy Use: Production requires energy for the hydrogenation process, which can be more sustainable if powered by renewable energy.
- End-of-Life Impact: Butylene Glycol is biodegradable and breaks down without causing significant environmental harm. Its impact is minimal when used in low concentrations in cosmetic products.
Biodegradability and Toxicity
Butylene Glycol is biodegradable and has low toxicity to aquatic life when released in the environment at typical concentrations used in cosmetics.
- Toxicity: It is generally considered non-toxic to humans and animals at typical cosmetic concentrations, though sensitivity can occur in some individuals.
- Environmental Impact: Low toxicity to aquatic organisms, making it a safer alternative compared to some synthetic solvents. However, large-scale release can still pose risks to water quality.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives
Several alternatives to Butylene Glycol exist, which may offer lower environmental impact:
- Glycerin: A plant-derived humectant that is biodegradable and has a lower environmental footprint.
- Pentylene Glycol: A bio-based humectant with moisturizing properties, often used as a safer and greener alternative.
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