Humectant

Propylene Glycol

INCI · Propylene Glycol

Revelika safety grade

Overview

A widely used humectant and solvent that attracts moisture and improves the penetration and texture of formulas. It has a long history of safe cosmetic use.

Who it's for

Most skin types as a hydrating and delivery-enhancing base.

Cautions

A known contact allergen for a small subset of people; those with reactive skin may prefer alternative glycols.

Suitability
Suits skin type
Dry Oily Combination Sensitive Acne-prone Mature Normal
Targets
Concentration
Concentration0 – 10%
Effective from
Max safe
In the glossary
Frequently asked
What does Propylene Glycol do in skincare?

A widely used humectant and solvent that attracts moisture and improves the penetration and texture of formulas. It has a long history of safe cosmetic use.

Is Propylene Glycol considered safe for skin?

A known contact allergen for a small subset of people; those with reactive skin may prefer alternative glycols.

RRevelika

A science-forward beauty ingredient encyclopedia. Every entry is written from published research and graded conservatively before it publishes.

Editorial standard

Content is educational, not medical advice. When evidence is uncertain we say so — and we default to caution on pregnancy safety.

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© 2026 REVELIKA · Built by ThirteenTabsEvidence-based · written from published research, graded conservatively