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Answer: Pentylene 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: Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream, Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Niacinamide Booster, Tatcha The Water Cream.
TL;DR: Pentylene Glycol is allowed in the EU but allowed in the US (humectant).
Reviewed for clarity & usefulness by the BannedPantry Parent Panel
INCI name PENTYLENE GLYCOL. Also called Hydrolite-5. CAS 5343-92-0.
Other names: 1,2-Pentanediol, Hydrolite-5
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level | low |
| Where it shows up | Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream, Paula's Choice BOOST 10% Niacinamide Booster, Tatcha The Water Cream |
| CAS number | 5343-92-0 |
Pentylene glycol (1,2-pentanediol) is a multifunctional cosmetic ingredient used as a humectant, solvent, and antimicrobial/preservative booster. It is increasingly used as a 'natural' alternative to traditional glycols and can be derived from sugarcane.
Used to hydrate skin, enhance product stability, and boost the efficacy of traditional preservatives, often allowing reduction of their concentration. It has mild antimicrobial properties.
Pentylene glycol has a good safety and tolerability profile. It is less irritating than propylene glycol and is suitable for sensitive skin formulations. No carcinogenic or endocrine effects are identified. It is COSMOS/ECOCERT acceptable when bio-based. Minor irritation is possible at high concentrations in compromised skin.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Pentylene 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.
Caprylyl glycol as a similar multifunctional preservative-humectant; glycerin for pure humectant function.
It can be derived from sugarcane (bio-based) and is accepted by some natural cosmetic certifiers. However, it requires chemical synthesis regardless of source.
Not classified as a standalone preservative in the EU Cosmetics Regulation, but it has antimicrobial properties and is used to boost preservative systems, often reducing the need for traditional preservatives.
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