Ethylhexylglycerin: Effects and Safety

Difference Between Ethylhexylglycerin and Glycerin

Since the ingredient name includes "glycerin," you might be wondering if ethylhexylglycerin is similar to glycerin.

It is true that ethylhexylglycerin is derived from glycerin . However, the two are very different in terms of their characteristics and roles as cosmetic ingredients.

This article provides detailed information about the characteristics and safety of ethylhexylglycerin.

What is Ethylhexylglycerin?

Ethylhexylglycerin is synthesized by the chemical reaction of glycerin and 2-ethylhexanol. It is a colorless, liquid cosmetic raw material.

We will go into more detail about safety later, but for most people it is a safe ingredient.
CIR, a global organization that evaluates the safety of ingredients, has concluded that it is safe when used appropriately.

In cosmetics, it is often mixed with phenoxyethanol, a synthetic preservative.
Why is that?

Multifunctional preservative

Ethylhexylglycerin has antibacterial properties. However, it is not designated as a preservative in any country, including Japan.

However, when used in combination with preservatives such as phenoxyethanol, the preservative effect of cosmetics can be enhanced.

As more and more consumers dislike parabens , which have a high preservative effect even in small amounts, manufacturers are constantly searching for alternative preservatives. As part of this, ethylhexylglycerin, which has the ability to increase preservative power, is being utilized.

Moreover, unlike common preservatives, ethylhexylglycerin also has moisturizing properties.

In other words, to put it simply, it is like a moisturizer with preservative properties.
This kills two birds with one stone by reducing the amount of preservatives used and adding moisturizing properties.

Its antibacterial properties can also suppress the growth of odor-causing bacteria, which is why it is also used as a deodorant.

Skin care benefits of ethylhexylglycerin

The moisturizing effect of ethylhexylglycerin comes from its raw material, glycerin. In skin care, it is expected to have the following effects:

Conditions and moisturizes the skin

It draws moisture into the skin, providing mild hydration and preventing moisture loss.

Softens the skin

When applied to the skin, it softens the surface, making it smooth to the touch and pleasant to use.

Safety of Ethylhexylglycerin

In the United States, there is an expert organization that evaluates the safety of ingredients. In a 2011 safety evaluation by this committee called CIR, ethylhexylglycerin was deemed safe at the concentrations present in existing products.

The concentrations shown at this time are as follows:

• Leave-in cosmetics such as skin care products: 0.002% to 2%
• Shampoo and other washable cosmetics: 0.000001% to 8%

So concentrations up to 2% or 8% are safe.

However, the same report also included cases of three women in their 50s and 60s who experienced allergic reactions.

However, the incidence of these cases is extremely rare. Moreover, the concentration of ethylhexyl in the cosmetics used by the three patients was 5% to 10%, which is considered to be above the safe concentration.

It is a safe ingredient for most people, but some people may experience irritation or allergic reactions if it is in high concentrations or if they have sensitive skin.

By the way, the EWG has given it a safety rating of 2. This rating also states that it is safe, but there is still some risk of allergies and skin irritation.