Is Butylene Glycol Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: Butylene Glycol is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Butylene Glycol on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. 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 and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
Butylene Glycol: regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | 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 |
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.
What regulators have flagged about Butylene Glycol
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 Glycol with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Pregnancy-conscious swaps free from Butylene Glycol →
Audited products that don't contain Butylene Glycol.
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Butylene Glycol and pregnancy: common questions
Is Butylene Glycol banned anywhere?
Butylene Glycol is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
Should I avoid Butylene Glycol during pregnancy?
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
What products contain Butylene Glycol?
Commonly found in COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Laneige Water Sleeping Mask, SK-II Facial Treatment Essence. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Butylene Glycol.
What can I use instead of Butylene Glycol?
Propylene glycol, glycerin, or pentylene glycol as alternatives; all have similar humectant functions. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Butylene Glycol or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
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.