INTRODUCTION Pentylene glycol (PTG) (1,2-pentanediol; 1,2-dihydroxy pentane; CAS no. 0 5. Find out which product is better for your skin. It has a range of useful properties. Nov 13, 2025 · Successfully manage your Propylene Glycol allergy. propylene glycol Your patch test result indicates that you have a contact allergy to propylene glycol. In a recent study, propylene glycol was found to be the most common allergen in topical corticosteroids, being present in 64% of the steroidal products. It is non-toxic. Ideal for dryness but patch test if sensitive. Propylene glycol is clear, colorless, slightly syrupy liquid at room temperature. Diet affects skin strongly too. Those with sensitive skin or conditions may develop a rash when using this ingredient. I have tried using solely DNS products from my dermatologist that don't have these. AI responses come directly from the literature, footnoted and sourced, to provide the most authoritative and verifiable responses. It is a viscous, colourless, and odourless liquid with low toxicity. 03 0. Aug 25, 2023 · Butylene glycol is a common ingredient in skin care products. Learn how it hydrates, its safety, and potential risks. AI Smart Folders (coming soon) Feb 26, 2025 · Discover the signs of propylene glycol allergy, how it's diagnosed, and effective treatment options. Aug 18, 2025 · Learn to identify and avoid propylene glycol in everyday products. 37 0. 2. Humectants attract and retain moisture, while moisturizers help seal your skin’s surface so the Butylene Glycol is a conditioning agent that covers your skin and hair. What Is Dipropylene Glycol? Dipropylene glycol is a type of alcohol that is used in cosmetics and skincare products to improve the texture and stability of the formulation. Propylene glycol, although generally recognized as safe for use, may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. This includes avoidance of many processed foods. Contact, systemic, and irritant cutaneous reactions have been documented for PG, which has become an increasingly common ingredient. Apr 4, 2024 · PG (Propylene Glycol) was named the American Contact Dermatitis Society’s Allergen of the Year in 2018, highlighting its potential to cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. Restore & Renew Face & Neck Multi Action Serum: Aqua (Water), Dimethicone, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Isononyl Isononanoate, Gluconolactone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20 Neopentyl glycol (NPG) (IUPAC name: 2,2-dimethylpropane-1,3-diol) is an organic chemical compound. Feb 20, 2019 · Learn about butylene glycol, a popular ingredient in cosmetics and skin care products that's generally safe for most people to use. Although propylene glycol is determined to be safe in skincare and cosmetics, propanediol is commonly used as an alternative to propylene glycol for those who want products that don't contain petroleum -based glycols. This is a support community for people learning to live with allergies to glycol compounds: Polyethylene glycol (PEG, PPG), propylene glycol (PG), ethylene glycol, and butylene glycol. By itself, it has a scent that is similar to that of a rose. ABSTRACT: Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is a significant health problem for many patients, affecting approximately 14. While both are considered safe when used as directed in cosmetics, these differences define their distinct roles in the ingredient landscape. It acts as a humectant. Propylene Glycol What's the Difference? Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) and Propylene Glycol (PG) are both types of glycols commonly used in various industries. Her response is as follows: "Propylene glycol (PG) and Macrogols (such as polyethylene glycols or PEGs) are synthetic substances that are used as vehicles in various cosmetic and medicinal products. AI Research Assistant Accelerate your research with our advanced AI tools. Oct 28, 2020 · Bethesda, MD 20894, Web Policies MeSH WebThis is a support community for people learning to live with allergies to glycol compounds: Polyethylene glycol (PEG, PPG), propylene glycol (PG), ethylene glycol, and 1988). Jan 19, 2018 · Propylene glycol (PG) has been a commercial product in the United States since the 1930s. I avoid butylene glycol as I think that’s the major cause of my hives and dermatitis. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Dermallergo Serum. Propylene glycol is a small organic alcohol commonly used as a skin conditioning agent. This ingredient is considered an organic alcohol and commonly added into both cosmetics and foods. Discover its effects on health, metabolism, safe usage limits, and future research directions📊. Oct 15, 2024 · Discover the benefits of propylene glycol for skin. Pentylene Glycol also acts as a mild preservative and helps to keep a product microbe-free. 9 0. Polyethylene Glycol Is a Cause of IgE-Mediated Anaphylaxis. A positive reaction to propylene glycol was also detected, whereas patch testing to butylene glycol was negative. Dec 3, 2023 · Pentylene glycol (PTG) (1,2-pentanediol; 1,2-dihydroxy pentane; CAS no. Hypersensitivity reactions to polyethylene glycol (PEG) is an emerging challenge and the interest about this disease is growing since PEG is considered one of the possible causes of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID 19) vaccine-associated anaphylaxis. Learn more. Propylene glycol (PG) is an overlooked ingredient in countless products and an insidious cause of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). Propylene glycol is also found in oral treatments as well as many foods. Learn practical ways to avoid exposure in food and skincare products. Practical strategies for managing this common allergy. Learn their key differences, uses, skin effects, and environmental impact. Sep 29, 2021 · Caprylyl glycol works as a humectant, which means it helps hydrate your skin, King explains. Greater recognition of its widespread presence and subsequent patch testing among dermatologists and healthcare providers may benefit patients suffering from ACD of unclear etiology. It is unlikely to cause any worrying problems if you eat something that contains propylene glycol, however potentially it could cause a flare of eczema/ itchy skin. Allergic contact dermatitis from pentylene glycol in an emollient cream, with possible co-sensitization to resveratrol. Comparison between La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Ageing Serum vs. Can someone explain to me the difference between propylene/butylene/pentylene and caprylyl glycol? [Misc] Miscellaneous Aug 11, 2025 · For suspected propylene glycol contact dermatitis, patch testing is a common diagnostic method. 5343-92-0) is a preservative, solvent, and humectant that is increasingly used in cosmetic products as an alternative to propylene glycol (PG), compared to which it is considered a weaker irritant and allergen. It is used in the synthesis of polyesters, paints, lubricants, and plasticizers. Homepage | European Medicines Agency Jul 14, 2024 · Compare Polypropylene Glycol (PPG) and Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) in beauty products. Health and safety, common uses, other names and ingredient information for Pentylene Glycol. Whole Milk, Sugar, Annatto color, Natural Flavor, Propylene Glycol, Natural Turmeric Color, Sodium Benzoate, Polysorbate 80, Znthan Gum, Citric Acid, Vitamin D3 I thought possible evaluation for Annatto allergies but Propylene Glycol was the common between the two. The toxicological properties of PG have been reviewed previously (Fowles et al. Learn more inside. Some people may experience mild eye and skin irritation from Pentylene Glycol. Propylene glycol usually refers to propane-1,2-diol (formerly known as 1,2-propanediol). Would this be performed through skin testing? Is there any protocol in place to follow for this type of allergy? I asked Dr. May 3, 2025 · Discover key symptoms, diagnosis tips, and treatment strategies for Propylene Glycol allergy to help manage your condition effectively. Not to PG but I’ve recently figured out I have a butylene glycol allergy/sensitivity and I suspect products with high pentylene or propylene glycol are further irritating my skin when BG has wrecked it. Pentylene Glycol has a low molecular weight and is part of the 1,2-glycol family Propylene glycol is also used to create artificial smoke or fog used in fire-fighting training and in theatrical productions. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Pentylene Glycol has 5 carbons, 1,2-Hexandiol has 6 carbons and Caprylyl Glycol has 8 carbons in the carbon chain. Learn how to decode labels and eliminate hidden PG sources from your everyday life. This guide cuts through the complexity, giving you a clear understanding of… Jul 11, 2024 · Dermatologists explain the benefits of propylene glycol and discuss the safety of it in your skincare products. Pentylene glycol is considered to be more gentle and less likely to cause irritation or sensitivity in the skin, making it a better option for those with sensitive skin. Consumers concerned about toxicity should discuss potential exposure to ethylene glycol with healthcare specialists. Dec 26, 2023 · Polyethylene glycol is a polymer used in laxatives and lubricants, while propylene glycol is a small organic alcohol used in food and cosmetics. 57-55-6) is a solvent, emulsifier, intermediate, penetration enhancer and carrier molecule that is a commonly used ingredient in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, fragrances and personal care products. For anyone worried about this, it may be worth asking the company which form of propanediol they use in their products. [53] Undiluted propylene glycol is minimally irritating to the eye, producing slight transient conjunctivitis; the eye recovers after the exposure is removed. 7 It was especially common in branded ointments and gels. It is mainly used as a solvent, viscosity-decreasing agent, masking agent, and fragrance ingredient. Propanediol vs. What is Pentylene Glycol? Pentylene glycol is part of the 1,2-glycol family of ingredients. Mar 26, 2025 · Ethylene Glycol vs Propylene Glycol: Learn how they differ, their safety profiles, and which one is best for skincare and cosmetics. com University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign North Shore Center for Medical Aesthetics Northbrook, IL Aug 1, 2021 · PDF | On Aug 1, 2021, Corazza Monica and others published Pentylene glycol: An emerging cosmetic allergen? | Find, read and cite all the research you need on ResearchGate Propylene glycol Where is Propylene glycol found? Propylene glycol is used as a softening agent, preservative, humectants, and solvent in cosmetics, fragrances, topical medications, soaps and cleansers, hair care products, and deodorants. Chat directly with your uploaded papers, and DeepDyve’s 50M+ LitStream and OA collections of full-text papers. Propylene glycol (PG), an emollient and emulsifier found in cosmetics, medications, and food, has been granted the dubious honor of being named the American Contact Dermatitis Society's Allergen of the Year for 2018. Phenoxyethanol is a preservative that has germicide, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Complete remission followed avoidance of the offending substances. , 2013), and key toxicology studies are described within the EU REACH registration dossier 6 days ago · Conversely, pentylene glycol is frequently preferred for sensitive skin formulations because its longer carbon chain is generally associated with a milder dermal profile and a lower risk of allergic reaction. Propylene glycol (PG), a formulary ingredient used in many personal care products, topical medicaments, and food, is a cause of ACD. Simply put, … Continue reading "Dipropylene Glycol . Jun 6, 2024 · IntroductionWhat makes polyethylene glycol vs propylene glycol different, and how does this affect their use in products you use every day? From safety to applications, this comparison addresses the key distinctions that inform their roles in various industries. 5343-92-0) is a preservative, solvent, and humectant that might be used increasingly in cosmetic products. It is unlikely to cause any worrying problems if you eat something that contains propylene glycol, however potentially it could cause a We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Propylene glycol is more like glycerol. The patient does not have any known allergies or PMH. Although propylene glycol is a ubiquitous ingredient in hair care products, there has been some debate about its use due to possible health hazards. Pentylene Glycol is known for its superior hydrating properties, gentle nature, and preservative properties, making it a versatile ingredient for a wide range of skincare products. It has been associated with irritant and allergic contact dermatitis as well as contact urticaria in humans; these sensitization effects can be manifested at propylene glycol concentrations as low as 2%. Nov 13, 2025 · The comparison of ethylene glycol vs propylene glycol for industrial cooling reveals clear trade-offs between thermal efficiency and sustainability. If you don't like propanediol, other products may use alcohols or glycolic acid to help penetration. Jun 2, 2021 · Is the propylene glycol in your hair care products making you itch? Although the French Chemist Charles-Adolphe Wurtz didn’t identify propylene glycol (PG) until 1859, today it is a widely used chemical in everything from the foods we eat to the cosmetics and hair care products we use. Dipropylene glycol is a member of the glycol class of compounds. Propylene glycol also adds antimicrobrial properties to a product, elongating product lifespan. Jul 5, 2025 · It is important to distinguish “ethylene glycol” from “propylene glycol” and “polyethylene glycol” clearly. 0 20. Thanks for this. Additionally, some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to glycerin, leading to skin irritation or allergic reactions. My question is how to test for a potential allergic response to macrogols/polyethylene glycol/propylene glycol. May 1, 2011 · Propylene glycol (PG) is considered to be a ubiquitous formulary ingredient used in many personal care products and pharmaceutical preparations. In a variety of consum allergy to polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, ethylene & butylene glycols Product Recommendations – Or Not? Tips to Surviving a Glycol Allergy As someone with multiple allergies to chemical ingredients and scents, I am always looking for products that are safe to use. Mar 22, 2022 · Have you noticed propylene glycol listed as an ingredient in one of your favorite beauty products? Here's why it's not a cause for alarm. 1 10. My skin has been so much better without BG! Feb 26, 2025 · Discover the ins and outs of PGPR allergy - its symptoms, diagnosis, and effective treatments like sublingual immunotherapy. Glycerin-containing cosmetic products improve the skin moisture. PEG is a polymer made up of repeating ethylene glycol units, while PG is a smaller molecule composed of propylene glycol units. LETTERS Contact Allergy to Propylene Glycol and Cross-Reactions Scheman, Andrew MD; Roszko, Karolina BS Author Information Department of Dermatology Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Chicago, IL patchtest@scheman. It became a very common product in air fresheners when a researcher’s work indicated it could sterilize air. We present the case of a 17-year-old female with chronic severe atopic Propylene glycol and Dipropylene glycol are derived from the same chemical process, adding water to propylene oxide. Amongst other things, it is used as a humectant, solvent, emulsifier, penetration enhancer and emollient, a food additi Feb 1, 2023 · Propylene glycol (PG; CAS No. Heat and dissolve Phase A and make it uniform. Patch testing to the cream and its ingredients revealed positive reactions to both propyl gallate and pentylene glycol. 1 However, recent reports of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD Propylene glycol is a small, synthetic alcohol (chemical formula CH3-CHOH-CH2OH) that has the potential to cause allergic contact dermatitis in some individuals. Dive into the intricacies of propylene glycol toxicity💧. Jul 30, 2015 · Skin reactions to propylene glycol are mostly irritant, but allergic contact dermatitis to propylene glycol has been well-documented. 5 million individuals each year. Gallo R, Viglizzo G, Vecchio F, Parodi A. This contact allergy may cause your skin to react when it is exposed to this substance although it may take several days for the symptoms to appear. Studies show that phenoxyethanol can prevent microbial growth. 2 days ago · Why This Formulation Is Problematic Propylene Glycol Concerns PG is a frequent contact allergen in patients with atopic dermatitis and sensitive skin, with fragrances and preservatives (particularly propylene glycol) being common sources of allergic reactions in emollients and topical preparations 1. My question was allergy to “Propylene Glycol “not to “polyethylene glycol”. 🌱Xanthan Gum? That's a secret weapon for creating that luxurious, velvety texture in water baded skincare! We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Here we share our experiences living with allergies that are uncommon, often hidden, and often life-threatening. I find the other glycols not so bad unless they are high up the ingredients list, if propylene or pentylene is in the top 4-5 ingredients I tend to get a reaction. Eric Macy for assistance with the response. This review guides clinicians in selecting suitable topical corticosteroids. Oct 1, 2018 · Propylene glycol is as contentious as it is ubiquitous because it acts as both a weak sensitizer and an irritant, confounding the results of positive patch tests. Oct 29, 2024 · Palep adds that propanediol is derived from corn, while propylene glycol is derived from petrochemicals. Ethylene glycol delivers 20-25% better heat transfer performance and 20-30% lower material costs while carrying significant toxicity and environmental risks. These toxic compounds may occasionally appear as manufacturing contaminants but are screened in reputable Polyethylene Glycol vs. Is there any data in regard to cross-reactivity between propylene glycol and macrogols? I asked Rachel Robison, MD for her input on your question. Pentylene Glycol has a low molecular weight and is part of the 1,2-glycol family. Buy high-quality Pentylene Glycol from our company. Retinol is a gold-standard ingredient for anti-aging. Jun 21, 2024 · Find out what you need to know about propylene glycol in foods. While Pentylene Glycol is preferred for its hydrating and gentle properties, Propylene Glycol is valued for its antimicrobial efficacy. MeSH terms Cosmetics / adverse effects* Cross Reactions Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / diagnosis Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / etiology* Female Glycols / adverse effects* Glycols / immunology Humans Middle Aged Patch Tests / methods Pentanes Propylene Glycol / immunology Conclusion In conclusion, Dipropylene Glycol (DPG) and Propylene Glycol (PG) are two glycol compounds with distinct attributes and applications. We offer support, understanding, and share ways we've succeeded living with an allergy to these Allergy to Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs), also known as macrogols, are compounds widely used in medicines, cosmetics and household products. Acid Butylene Glycol Pentylene Glycol Glycerin Yeast Polysaccharides Hydroxyethylcellulose, Water Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Water Sodium Hydroxide, Water Phenoxyethanol % W/W 2. In rare cases, high concentrations of propylene glycol may cause adverse effects such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, or respiratory issues. Typical symptoms include redness, swelling, itching, and fluid-filled blisters. Propylene glycol is 1,2-propanediol, but there is also 1,3-propanediol that doesn't have the same sensitizing effects and is often used as a replacement for propylene glycol. For suspected polyethylene glycol allergy, particularly immediate systemic reactions, specific allergy testing may be conducted under medical supervision. OK, so if I know what to avoid, what do I use instead? Keep in mind a sensitivity to butylene glycol might extend to other glycols as well so prepare extensive patch testing! To list the most common ingredients: Propylene glycol, PEG (polyethylene glycol), PPG (polypropylene glycol), 1,2-propandiol, 1,3-propandiol is fine as it's a different chemical structure, and glycerine/glycerol. The carbon chain can vary in length; for example, propylene glycol, which has a chain length of … Continue reading "Pentylene Glycol: Are Glycols Bad MeSH terms Cosmetics / adverse effects* Cross Reactions Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / etiology* Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / immunology Humans Propylene Glycols / adverse effects* Propylene glycol may be non-irritating to the skin, see section Allergic reaction below for details on allergic reactions. 5 SUPPLIER MCLS MCLS Procedure 1. Jul 8, 2017 · For those with allergic contact dermatitis to propylene glycol, an avoidance diet may help. We always recommend speaking with a professional about using this ingredient in your routine. My skin was ok at the time. May 27, 2021 · Moisturizers Glycols and particularly propylene glycol, butylene glycol and pentylene glycol have hygroscopic features or in other words, they absorb water and retain it through hydrogen bridges. Learn how to avoid Propylene Glycol in your daily life. Jan 5, 2022 · The key difference between polyethylene glycol and propylene glycol is that polyethylene glycol is a polymer material, whereas propylene glycol is a single molecular compound that can be named a diol. However, they have distinct differences. Learn about their properties, safety, and sustainability. However, it is important to note that propylene glycol has a higher potential for toxicity compared to butylene glycol. Pentylene glycol is a much gentler and natural option. 1 47. Other names for propylene glycol are 1,2-dihydroxypropane, 1,2-propanediol, methyl glycol, and trimethyl glycol. The 1,2-glycols are characterized by the presence of two hydroxyl or alcohol groups on the first and second attachment points along the carbon chain. Compare Pentylene Glycol and Propylene Glycol for cosmetic and industrial uses. Discover what it is, its uses, and the risk it poses to your health. In conclusion, Pentylene Glycol and Propanediol are both valuable ingredients in skincare and cosmetic products, each with its own unique attributes and benefits. 0 4. The usual problem with propylene glycol allergy is with itchy skin at the site of contact with a substance containing this chemical. 0 1. While DPG offers higher temperature stability and enhanced performance as a solvent and coupling agent, PG's lower cost and versatility make it a popular choice in various industries. We will explain what propylene glycol is, why it is used in hair products, any potential hazards or advantages, and possible substitute ingredients. AI outputs powered by OpenAI and Anthropic Claude. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and propylene glycol (PG) are two widely used synthetic compounds with a range of applications spanning from pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to industrial processes. Propylene Glycol: Distinguishing Between Similar Ingredients Although propylene glycol and propanediol are both useful components in cosmetics and personal care products, their origins, skin compatibility, and environmental effects are very different. PG is a useful, flexible multipurpose chemical. Pentylene glycol is a natural ingredient derived from corn sugar, while propylene glycol is a synthetic compound derived from petroleum. Conclusion In conclusion, Pentylene Glycol and Propylene Glycol are both versatile ingredients with unique attributes that make them suitable for use in skincare and cosmetic products. 1 However, recent reports of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) from PTG in cosmetics for sensitive We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Aug 29, 2021 · Pentylene glycol (1,5-pentanediol; 1,2-dihydroxy pentane; CAS no. Propylene glycol is a different chemical to both ethylene glycol and polyethylene glycol. Management primarily involves avoiding the identified allergen. Confusingly, the names “propylene glycol” and “butylene glycol” can refer to several slightly different substances, since there are a few choices of carbon atoms for the OH groups to be attached to.