Ethylhexylglycerin (EHG)

Ethylhexylglycerin (EHG) – Multifunctional Preservative and Skin Conditioning Agent for Cosmetics

Basic Information

• INCI Name: Ethylhexylglycerin

• Chemical Name: 3‑[(2‑Ethylhexyl)oxy]‑1,2‑propanediol

• Appearance: Clear, colorless to slightly yellowish liquid

• Solubility: Soluble in water, alcohols, and glycols; partially soluble in oils

Overview
Ethylhexylglycerin (EHG) is a multifunctional cosmetic ingredient that serves as both a mild preservative and a skin conditioning agent. It is widely used in personal care formulations to enhance the antimicrobial efficacy of primary preservatives (e.g., phenoxyethanol, parabens, organic acids), allowing for lower overall preservative loads while maintaining product safety. Additionally, it provides emollient and wetting properties, improving the sensory profile of finished products.

Key Functions

• Antimicrobial booster: Enhances the activity of other preservatives against bacteria, yeast, and mold, contributing to a broad‑spectrum preservation system.

• Skin conditioning: Acts as a humectant and emollient, leaving skin feeling soft and smooth without greasiness.

• Irritation reduction: Helps mitigate the skin irritation potential of other surfactant and preservative systems, making it suitable for sensitive skin formulations.

• Texture improvement: Imparts a pleasant, light after‑feel to lotions, creams, and gels.

• Wetting agent: Reduces surface tension, improving spreadability of aqueous and emulsion systems.

Applications

• Shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers.

• Leave‑on products such as lotions, creams, and serums.

• Deodorants and antiperspirants.

• Sunscreens and after‑sun care.

• Baby care and sensitive skin products.

• Color cosmetics and makeup removers.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels: 0.3–1.0% in rinse‑off products; 0.5–2.0% in leave‑on formulations. It is often combined with phenoxyethanol (1:1 to 1:3 ratio) for optimized preservation.

Handling and Storage

• Store in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat.

• Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent contamination.

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

Packaging
Available in 25 kg, 50 kg, and 200 kg drums. Custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity (by GC), color, and water content to ensure consistent quality for cosmetic applications.