Is Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) banned?
Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) is permitted by the US FDA. Several countries restrict, warning-label, or have reviewed it for safety concerns. The US has more lenient additive rules than the EU, UK, Canada, and Japan, which is why this ingredient remains widely used here.
Why Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) is flagged
Propylene glycol is safe at typical cosmetic use concentrations (1–15%). The CIR and EU SCCS have both reviewed and affirmed its safety. It can cause contact sensitization and irritant reactions in some individuals, particularly at concentrations above 5% in leave-on products; those with sensitive or compromised skin may react. It is rapidly metabolized if absorbed and is not bioaccumulative. There is no evidence of carcinogenicity or endocrine disruption at cosmetic use levels. Note: this entry covers topical cosmetic use; ingested large doses (antifreeze context) are toxic, which is a separate matter.
Scan your pantry for Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic)
Get a free Safe / Caution / Avoid score on any US food or beauty barcode \u2014 with EFSA + FDA citations.
Scan a product \u2192See the full Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) deep-dive page for regulatory citations, products that contain it, and verified clean swaps.