1,3-Butylene Glycol CAS 107-88-0

1,3-Butylene Glycol – Versatile Humectant, Solvent, and Texture Enhancer for Cosmetics

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 107-88-0

• Molecular Formula: C₄H₁₀O₂

• Molecular Weight: 90.12 g/mol

• Synonyms: Butane-1,3-diol, 1,3-BG, Butylene glycol

• Appearance: Clear, colorless, viscous liquid

• Odor: Practically odorless

• Density: ~1.005 g/cm³ (at 20°C)

• Boiling Point: ~207°C

• Flash Point: 121°C

• Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohol, and many organic solvents

• Hygroscopicity: High – attracts and retains moisture

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

Overview
1,3-Butylene glycol is a low-molecular-weight diol widely used in cosmetic, personal care, and household formulations. Its two hydroxyl groups provide excellent hydrophilic properties, making it an effective humectant, solvent, and viscosity reducer. It is valued for its ability to retain moisture, improve product spreadability, and enhance the sensory feel of formulations without leaving a sticky or greasy residue. It is safe, well-tolerated by skin, and suitable for use in a wide range of products, including creams, lotions, serums, toners, sunscreens, and hair care products.

Chemical Properties

• Humectant: Attracts and binds water, providing long-lasting hydration to skin and hair.

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

• Viscosity reducer: Lowers the viscosity of formulations, improving flow and application.

• Stabilizer: Enhances the stability of emulsions and prevents crystallization of ingredients.

• Non-tacky: Provides a smooth, non-sticky after-feel.

• 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.

• Deodorants and antiperspirants: Provides a smooth, non-tacky feel.

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

• Extraction: Used as a solvent for plant extracts and active ingredients.

Key Benefits

• Excellent moisture retention – keeps skin and hair hydrated.

• Improves product spreadability and absorption.

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

• Enhances the stability and performance of formulations.

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

• Compatible with a wide range of cosmetic ingredients.

• Acts as a solvent and co-solvent for active compounds.

• Provides a pleasant, light sensory feel.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels range from 1–10% of the formulation, depending on the desired moisturizing, viscosity, and sensory 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.