Skip to content
be sonatural, Face masks, read from the back

Butylene Glycol

BG

Well toleratedHumectanthumectantsolventviscosity control

No meaningful concern for most people; irritation is possible but rare.

Also written as: 1,3-Butylene Glycol · 1,3-Butanediol · BG

What it is

Butylene glycol is a small synthetic alcohol that holds water, thins out heavy textures and dissolves ingredients that will not mix into water on their own. Formulators favour it over propylene glycol because it gives a lighter, less sticky feel and has a lower irritation and sensitisation profile.

What it does well

  • Hydrates while keeping textures light

    It provides humectancy without the tackiness of glycerin, which is why it is so common in essences, serums and sheet-mask fluids. It also helps plant extracts stay dissolved.

    Moderate evidence

Worth knowing

  • Occasional irritation on very sensitive skin

    Reactions are rare and generally mild. People who react to propylene glycol do not usually react to butylene glycol, but occasional cross-sensitivity has been reported.

    Matters most toPeople with a known glycol allergy.

Where the EU stands

No specific restriction

Permitted in EU cosmetics with no concentration limit. It is not listed in the banned, restricted or preservative annexes of the Cosmetics Regulation.

Masks that contain Butylene Glycol