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Moumoujus

1,2-HEXANEDIOL.

Valuable CAS 6920-22-5 / SKIN CONDITIONING, SOLVENT

1,2-Hexanediol is a versatile humectant and solvent, adept at significantly boosting skin hydration and acting as an effective broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent. It provides a non-greasy emollient feel to formulations and enhances ingredient penetration.

Summary

Humectant Solvent Emollient Preservative Enhancer Antimicrobial Agent Perfume Solvent Pigment Disperser Penetration Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions as a humectant by actively drawing and binding water molecules to the skin's surface, thereby preventing moisture loss and contributing to a visibly smoother, plumper complexion. It also imparts emollient properties, delivering a soft and silky skin feel without residual greasiness. As a solvent, 1,2-Hexanediol facilitates the dissolution and uniform dispersion of other active compounds, while also having the capacity to reduce product viscosity. Additionally, it exhibits potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, disrupting microbial cell membranes to inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, thus extending product shelf life. It further enhances the dermal penetration of co-formulated ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–5%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Significantly enhances skin hydration.
  2. 02 Exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
  3. 03 No skin irritation was observed in human trials.
  4. 04 One out of 205 participants showed a stimulus response in a patch test at 15%, with no follow-up reaction observed in a 4-day repeated release patch test.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

1,2-Hexanediol is a clear, colorless, and nearly odorless hygroscopic liquid that demonstrates excellent thermal stability. It is easily integrated into formulations and is compatible with surfactants, oils, and volatile compounds. When used in emulsions, it is recommended for incorporation into the water phase.

Synergies

  • Surfactants
  • Oils
  • Volatile compounds

Conflicts

  • Methicone
  • Glycolic Acid
  • Kojic Acid
  • Alpha Arbutin

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
10%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that 1,2-glycols, including 1,2-Hexanediol, are safe for use under current practices and concentrations. While no specific maximum concentration for 1,2-Hexanediol alone is explicitly stated by CIR, cosmetic concentrations typically do not exceed 10%. It is considered to have low toxicity and is not classified as a reproductive toxin or carcinogen. However, it can be slightly irritating to the eyes, with reports of severe eye irritation. Limited evidence suggests potential for dermal and lung irritation. In vitro cytotoxicity tests indicated significant cell death in RAW 264.7 and HK-2 cells at 0.5% and 1.0%, raising questions about toxicity in personal care products often containing concentrations above 2%.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

1,2-Hexanediol is a valuable, multifunctional ingredient that significantly enhances skin hydration and product stability while offering versatile formulation benefits across all skin types.

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