Pregnancy · Beauty

Is Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) Safe During Pregnancy?

The facts: Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) 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 Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion, Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer, Degree Antiperspirant Deodorant.

TL;DR: Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.

This is not medical advice. Always talk to your OB-GYN or midwife about your diet and products during pregnancy. A restriction in another country is not the same as a proven pregnancy risk — we show you the regulatory facts and the sources so you can have an informed conversation with your provider.
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Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic): regulatory status at a glance

EU statusAllowed
US statusAllowed
Risk level (regulatory)low
Where it shows upAveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion, Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer, Degree Antiperspirant Deodorant, Dove Body Lotion

What is Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic)?

Propylene glycol is a small synthetic organic compound (diol) used in cosmetics as a humectant, solvent, and skin-conditioning agent. It is produced from propylene oxide (petroleum) but also from bio-based sources.

Why is Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) used in personal-care products?

PG absorbs and retains water in formulations, improves spreadability, and helps carry active ingredients into the skin. It also serves as a preservative booster and co-solvent for water-insoluble actives.

What regulators have flagged about Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic)

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.

For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) 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.

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Audited products that don't contain Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic).

Audited CleanClean dye-free
Himalayan Pink Salt Popcorn
Lesser Evil
Zero artificial dyes or preservatives — none of the Red 40 or Yellow 5 found in conventional microwave popcorn. Non-GMO verified.
$4–6/bag
Audited CleanKid-safe
Organic Cheddar Bunnies
Annie's
Free from artificial colors including Red 40 and Yellow 6, which are required to carry warning labels in the EU. USDA Organic certified.
$5–7/box
Audited CleanEU-grade
Original Grain-Free Granola
Simple Mills
No BHA, BHT, or TBHQ preservatives — synthetic antioxidants restricted or banned in Japan and the UK. Made with whole almonds and seeds.
$9–11/bag
Audited CleanClean dye-free
Dark Chocolate Chips
Lily's
Sweetened with stevia instead of high-fructose corn syrup, which is restricted in many EU products. No artificial colors.
$6–8/bag
Audited CleanEU-grade
Chocolate Bark Crackers
Hu Kitchen
No TBHQ, no BHT, no artificial preservatives of any kind. Clean ingredients only — aligns with EU additive standards.
$7–9/box
Audited CleanPregnancy-safe
Simple Squares Almond Honey Bar
Simple Squares
No sodium nitrite, artificial colors, or preservatives of concern. 6 ingredients total — ideal for pregnancy-safe snacking.
$3–4/bar

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Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) and pregnancy: common questions

Is Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) banned anywhere?

Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.

Should I avoid Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) 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 Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic)?

Commonly found in Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion, Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer, Degree Antiperspirant Deodorant, Dove Body Lotion. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic).

What can I use instead of Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic)?

Glycerin or butylene glycol for humectant function; 1,3-propanediol (Zemea) as a bio-based, gentler alternative. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.

Pregnant and not sure what's in your cart?

Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Propylene Glycol (Cosmetic) or other ingredients restricted overseas.

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Other ingredients to check during pregnancy

Sources

  1. CIR Safety Assessment of Propylene Glycol — Cosmetic Ingredient Review
  2. SCCS Opinion on Propylene Glycol — EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety
  3. EWG Skin Deep: Propylene Glycol — Environmental Working Group

Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.

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