Applications of Ethylhexylglycerin in Cosmetics

1. Preservative Booster — Its Most Important Role

Ethylhexylglycerin is widely used to enhance the efficacy of preservative systems.

It can disrupt microbial cell membranes, significantly improving the antimicrobial performance of preservatives such as phenoxyethanol, parabens, and caprylyl glycol.

This allows formulators to reduce the usage of traditional preservatives and create milder or “preservative-free” marketing concepts.

Common in: cleansers, lotions, creams, serums, baby care products.

2. Mild Antimicrobial Agent

Ethylhexylglycerin itself has mild antimicrobial activity, especially against Gram-positive bacteria.

It is often used in “paraben-free” formulations as an alternative antimicrobial ingredient.

3. Skin Conditioning Agent

It helps soften the skin and improve texture.

It also reduces the stickiness caused by humectants (e.g., glycerin), resulting in a smoother, more pleasant skin feel.

4. Penetration Enhancer

Ethylhexylglycerin can improve the absorption of certain active ingredients such as niacinamide, panthenol, and botanical extracts.

It is frequently added to serums and functional skincare products.

5. Skin Feel Improver

It acts as a light emollient that enhances spreadability and provides a soft, non-greasy touch.

This makes it especially suitable for leave-on products such as sprays and essences.

Benefits

• Very mild and safe, with low irritation
• Excellent compatibility with most formulations
• Suitable for sensitive skin
• Highly stable under light and heat
• Globally accepted with no major regulatory concerns

Typical Product Applications

Common Combinations

• Phenoxyethanol + Ethylhexylglycerin (most classic and effective synergy)
• Capryloyl glycine + Ethylhexylglycerin (common in cleansing formulas)
• Hexanediol / Pentylene glycol + Ethylhexylglycerin (“preservative-free” systems)
• Botanical extract systems + Ethylhexylglycerin (improved stability and antimicrobial support)