Propylene Glycol

INCI: Propylene Glycol

Also known as: PG, 1,2-Propanediol

HydrationhumectantsyntheticStrong evidencePregnancy safe

Skinlumis Rating

Comedogenic

0/5

Irritancy

1/5

Best applied

Both

Effective range

2%–20%

How It Works

A small-molecule humectant and penetration enhancer. Common in serums and prescription topicals because it carries actives deeper into skin.

Hydrates the stratum corneum while disrupting intercellular lipid packing slightly to enhance penetration of co-formulated actives.

pH Range

4.0–8.0

Benefits

Hydrates
Enhances penetration of actives
Cosmetically light
Antimicrobial co-effect at high %

Proven For

What the evidence supports.

Dehydration

Best For

All skin types

Avoid If

History of contact dermatitis to PG

Layering Order

4/10

Mid-routine serum or treatment step.

Max Safe Concentration

50%

Concentration range in well-formulated products: 2%–20%

Seasonal Use

Year-round.

Nutrition Connection

Generally recognised as safe food additive.

Skin Signals When You Need It

No specific deficiency signals tracked for this ingredient.

For Estheticians & Professionals

Roughly 2% of patch-test panels show PG sensitivity. Note for atopic clients.

Clinical Evidence

The research behind Propylene Glycol.

1 peer-reviewed study

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 →

Pairs Well With

Salicylic Acid Hyaluronic Acid

Conflicts With

No flagged conflicts. Still, patch-test new actives.

Your Skin Compatibility