Ethylhexylglycerin

Ethylhexylglycerin is created from glycerin. It is a multitasker ingredient that:

• Boosts the efficacy of preservatives
• Helps other preservatives work harder at lower doses
• Acts as mild humectant
• Inhibits the bacteria that causes odor as a deodorizing agent

The CIR Expert Panel found minimal skin absorption or sensitization of any kind in a safety assessment. Though this ingredient is considered well-tolerated, a small number of cases of allergic dermatitis have been published since 2002. Just be sure to patch test if you are unsure.

Industry-reported use ranges from 8% in rinse-off products and 2% in leave-on formulations.