1,2-Hexanediol
INCI · 1,2-Hexanediol · also Hexanediol
Overview
A multitasking glycol that hydrates lightly, dissolves ingredients that resist water, and makes the environment less hospitable to microbes. That last property lets formulators lean less on classic preservatives, which is why it shows up so often.
Who it's for
Very common in Korean formulas and in products marketed as 'preservative-free'.
Cautions
'Preservative-free' claims built on it are more about labelling than chemistry; sensitive skin occasionally reacts to glycols at higher levels.
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What does 1,2-Hexanediol do in skincare?
A multitasking glycol that hydrates lightly, dissolves ingredients that resist water, and makes the environment less hospitable to microbes. That last property lets formulators lean less on classic preservatives, which is why it shows up so often.
Is 1,2-Hexanediol considered safe for skin?
'Preservative-free' claims built on it are more about labelling than chemistry; sensitive skin occasionally reacts to glycols at higher levels.