What is "Pentylene Glycol" and what is its utility?

Pentylene glycol or pentane-1,2-diol is a diol with the molecular formula C5H12O2. The two alcohol groups are attached to the first and second carbon atoms, respectively. A few years ago, only the synthetic version derived from mineral oils was available and used in cosmetic care. Today, pentylene glycol is also available in a plant-based version, especially in natural and/or certified organic products. It is then extracted from renewable plant sources such as corn or sugarcane.

Pentylene glycol is a compound recognized both for its functional activity (as a solvent, preservative) in a cosmetic formula and the benefits it brings to the skin:

• Pentylene glycol is a humectant that retains water in the superficial layers of the epidermis.

  Composed of two alcohol functions (-OH), pentylene glycol demonstrates an affinity with water molecules; it is a hydrophilic compound. As such, it retains moisture in the skin as well as in hair fibers, preventing their breakage. It is recommended for the care of dry and dehydrated skin, as well as brittle, split, and damaged hair.

• Pentylene glycol is frequently used as a solvent in a product.

  Capable of dissolving numerous active substances and ingredients, pentylene glycol is often added to formulations to stabilize the mixture. Its non-reactivity with other compounds makes it an excellent solvent.

• As a preservative, it restricts the growth of microbes and bacteria within the formulas.

  Pentylene glycol has the ability to protect a skincare product from any microbial growth, which enhances the product's longevity and maintains its effectiveness and safety over time.

Note : This antimicrobial function also protects the skin from harmful bacteria that can be present in large quantities in acne (S. aureus and S. epidermidis in particular) or cause significant body odors, especially in the armpit area.