Butylene Glycol
INCI: Butylene Glycol
Also known as: BG, 1,3-Butanediol
HydrationhumectantsyntheticModerate evidencePregnancy safe
72
Skinlumis Rating
Comedogenic
0/5
Irritancy
0/5
Best applied
Both
Effective range
2%–10%
How It Works
A larger humectant cousin of propylene glycol, less likely to irritate. Widely used in K-beauty and J-beauty hydrating formulations.
Humectant with a mild penetration-enhancing effect, lower irritation than PG due to longer carbon chain.
pH Range
4.0–8.0
Benefits
- Hydrates
- Improves slip
- Penetration aid
- Low irritation
Proven For
What the evidence supports.
Dehydration
Best For
- All skin types
Avoid If
No notable contraindications reported.
Layering Order
4/10
Mid-routine serum or treatment step.
Max Safe Concentration
20%
Concentration range in well-formulated products: 2%–10%
Seasonal Use
Year-round.
For Estheticians & Professionals
Frequently the 'silent' humectant base for essences and toners.
Clinical Evidence
The research behind Butylene Glycol.
Every claim on this page traces to published research. Findings below are drawn from randomized trials and systematic reviews, each links to the study on PubMed.
Randomized Controlled Trial
Nano-hyaluronic acid significantly improved skin hydration and elasticity after 8 weeks.
Jegasothy SM, Zabolotniaia V, Bielfeldt S
Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2014
View Study →Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2014
Pairs Well With
Conflicts With
No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.
Your Skin Compatibility
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