1,2-Pentylene Glycol CAS 5343-92-0

1,2-Pentylene Glycol – Multifunctional Humectant and Solvent for Cosmetics

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 5343-92-0

• Molecular Formula: C₅H₁₂O₂

• Molecular Weight: 104.15 g/mol

• Synonyms: Pentane-1,2-diol, 1,2-Pentanediol

• Appearance: Clear, colorless, low‑viscosity liquid

• Odor: Practically odorless

• Density: ~0.97 g/cm³ (at 20°C)

• Boiling Point: ~206°C

• Flash Point: 114°C

• Solubility: Miscible with water, ethanol, and most organic solvents

• Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture

Overview
1,2‑Pentylene glycol is a low‑molecular‑weight diol with two hydroxyl groups located on adjacent carbon atoms of a five‑carbon chain. It is a versatile multifunctional ingredient widely used in cosmetic, personal care, and household formulations. It serves as a humectant, solvent, and auxiliary preservative, providing moisture retention, improved product stability, and enhanced skin feel. Its excellent solubility in both water and organic solvents makes it an effective carrier for active ingredients and a valuable component in a wide range of formulations.

Chemical Structure and Synthesis
The molecular structure of 1,2‑pentylene glycol can be represented as:
HO–CH₂–CH(OH)–CH₂–CH₂–CH₃
It is synthesized through catalytic hydrogenation or redox reactions, yielding a high‑purity product suitable for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.

Physicochemical Properties

• Humectant: Attracts and binds moisture, providing long‑lasting hydration to skin and hair.

• Solvent: Dissolves a wide range of active ingredients, fragrances, and preservatives.

• Emulsion stabilizer: Improves the stability of emulsions and prevents phase separation.

• Preservative booster: Exhibits mild antimicrobial activity, enhancing the efficacy of primary preservatives.

• Non‑tacky: Leaves a smooth, non‑sticky after‑feel on skin and hair.

• Mild and safe: Well‑tolerated by skin and mucous membranes; suitable for sensitive skin.

• Good compatibility: Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients, including surfactants, oils, and active compounds.

Applications

• Skin care: Moisturizers, serums, toners, sunscreens, and masks – provides hydration, improves spreadability, and enhances skin feel.

• Hair care: Shampoos, conditioners, and styling products – improves manageability, softness, and moisture retention.

• Color cosmetics: Foundations, concealers, and primers – improves pigment dispersion and application.

• Cleansing products: Body washes, facial cleansers, and baby care – provides gentle, non‑irritating cleansing.

• Household products: Used as a solvent and humectant in various cleaning and personal care formulations.

Key Benefits

• Excellent moisture retention – keeps skin and hair hydrated.

• Improves product spreadability and absorption.

• Leaves a non‑greasy, non‑tacky finish.

• Enhances emulsion stability and prevents phase separation.

• Boosts the efficacy of preservatives, reducing overall preservative load.

• Safe, non‑irritating, and suitable for sensitive skin.

• Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic and personal care ingredients.

• Provides a pleasant, light sensory feel.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 1–10% of the formulation, depending on the desired moisturizing, solvent, and preservative‑boosting properties. For optimal performance, incorporate into the water phase or add at room temperature with agitation.

Safety and Handling

• Generally recognized as safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations.

• Low irritation potential; well‑tolerated by skin and eyes.

• Avoid contact with strong oxidizers and acids.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, safety goggles) when handling.

• Shelf life: typically 24–36 months under recommended storage conditions.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity, moisture content, and color to ensure consistent quality and compliance with cosmetic standards.