Esthetician's Guide to Ethylhexylglycerin

This condition appears in the ASCP SkinPro app

What is Ethylhexylglycerin?

A synthetically produced ingredient that acts as a skin-softening agent, a humectant, and a preservative-enhancer. It is also a surfactant that can cause the cell walls of bacteria to break down, making them more susceptible to preservatives such as phenoxyethanol. 

What Should I Know About Ethylhexylglycerin?

• A humectant and skin softener, but frequently used as a preservative-enhancer.
   
• Has been used more in recent years as a replacement agent for parabens.
   
• It weakens the cell walls of bacteria, making the bacteria more susceptible to preservatives.

Considerations for Ethylhexylglycerin

• Use of ethylhexylglycerin in skin care products may reduce the need for more preservatives in a product. 
   
• In large concentrations, it has been known to cause minor eye irritation. In most formulations, however, it is used at a very low concentration, thereby reducing this risk.
   
• May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

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