Is Butylene Glycol Banned? EU vs US Status, Risks & Where It Hides
TL;DR: Butylene Glycol is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (humectant).
INCI name BUTYLENE GLYCOL. Also called BG. CAS 107-88-0.
Other names: 1,3-Butanediol, BG
Is Butylene Glycol banned in the EU?
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Laneige Water Sleeping Mask, SK-II Facial Treatment Essence |
| CAS number | 107-88-0 |
What is Butylene Glycol?
Butylene glycol (1,3-butanediol) is a small diol used in cosmetics as a humectant, solvent, and skin-conditioning agent. It is closely related to propylene glycol but has a slightly larger molecular structure, often making it even better tolerated.
Why is Butylene Glycol used in personal-care products?
Used as a primary humectant and co-solvent in serums, essences, and toners. Also acts as a penetration enhancer for water-soluble actives and a preservative booster.
Is Butylene Glycol dangerous? Documented risks
Butylene glycol has a good safety profile and is better tolerated by sensitive skin than propylene glycol at equivalent concentrations. The CIR has confirmed it safe for cosmetic use. It is non-carcinogenic, non-mutagenic, and not an endocrine disruptor. Contact sensitization is rare. It is widely used in Korean beauty (K-beauty) formulations as a preferred humectant.
Products that may contain Butylene Glycol
- Olay Ultra Moisture Body Wash with Shea ButterOlay
- Bath & Body Works Eucalyptus Spearmint Body CreamBath & Body Works
- Olay Quench Daily Moisture LotionOlay
- Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion Fragrance-FreeLubriderm
- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle CleanserLa Roche-Posay
- Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting SerumOlay
- e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundatione.l.f.
- NYX Professional Makeup Total Control Drop FoundationNYX
How to avoid Butylene Glycol: safer alternatives
Propylene glycol, glycerin, or pentylene glycol as alternatives; all have similar humectant functions.
Frequently asked questions about Butylene Glycol
Is butylene glycol safe for sensitive skin?
Generally yes, and it tends to be better tolerated than propylene glycol by those with sensitivity. It is widely used in gentle Korean beauty formulations.
Does butylene glycol penetrate skin?
Yes, to a small degree, which is why it can help carry water-soluble actives into the skin. This penetration is minimal and not a safety concern.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Butylene Glycol or other ingredients banned overseas.
Scan a product free →Related humectant
Avoiding banned beauty ingredients? Check your food, too.
Sources
- CIR Safety Assessment of Butylene Glycol — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
- EWG Skin Deep: Butylene Glycol — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.