Propolene Glycol – A Common Skin Ingredient With Issues

Propylene Glycol is really a humectant and humidifying agent. This ingredient is usually applied to brake fluid, anti freeze, laundry detergents, paints and floor wax. It's also used in the cosmetic industry and some foodsto hold products from melting or freezing in extreme temperatures by maintaining a stable moisture content. Propylene glycol is on the US Food and Drug Administration’s list of ingredients which are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) and is recognized by the World Health Organization as safe for use.

The information safety data sheet for propylene glycol states that it's “implicated in touch dermatitis, kidney damage and liver abnormalities; can inhibit cell growth in human tests and can damage cell membranes causing rashes, dry skin and surface damage”. The concentrated form of the ingredient can cause temporary reddening, stinging or swelling when it comes in connection with the eyes or skin. Propylene glycol is a petroleum plastic that can easily penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin potentially weakening cellular structure.