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Answer: Butylene Glycol is not currently banned worldwide, but health agencies have flagged concerns. The FDA still allows it in US cosmetics and personal-care products. Risk level: low. Commonly found in: COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Laneige Water Sleeping Mask.
TL;DR: Butylene Glycol is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (humectant).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
INCI name BUTYLENE GLYCOL. Also called BG. CAS 107-88-0.
Other names: 1,3-Butanediol, BG
| 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 |
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.
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.
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.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Butylene Glycolwith citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice. Regulatory status is not the same as a proven health effect — read the cited sources for their exact wording, and consult a doctor for decisions about your or your family's health.
Propylene glycol, glycerin, or pentylene glycol as alternatives; all have similar humectant functions.
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.
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.
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