Ethylhexylglycerin is a cosmetic ingredient that is used in skincare products. It is used as an alternative to parabens (preservatives) and is used for its skin-conditioning properties [1]. Ethylhexylglycerin has been reported to cause dermatitis and skin irritation.
What Products Have Ethylhexylglycerin In Them?
Although relatively new, ethylhexylglycerin is an ingredient in a variety of cosmetic products. Keep an eye out for the following products.
Ethylhexylglycerin can be found in:
-
Sunscreens [2]
-
Face creams
-
Moisturizers
-
Shampoos & conditioners
-
Body lotions
Is Ethylhexylglycerin Safe?
Ethylhexylglycerin is not safe due to its performance as a contact allergen. People with sensitive skin and an existing skin condition are more likely to be impacted byproducts containing this ingredient. However, anyone can be exposed to the possibility of dermatitis and skin irritation as a result of ethylhexylglycerin. Million Marker recommends that ethylhexlglycerin is included as one the chemicals to avoid.
Health Impacts of Ethylhexylglycerin Products
Some common health effects are:
-
Dermatitis
-
Skin irritation
This ingredient has also been called out for increasing the effectiveness of phenoxyethanol, which is a preservative we suggest avoiding.
Recommended Alternatives to Ethylhexylglycerin
Take a look at our Approved Products to replace cosmetics that may contain ethylhexylglycerin.
Here are some ethylhexylglycerin-free products:
-
Protect yourself from the sun with: Cover Me Coco Mineral Sun Lotion.
-
Moisturize your face with Meow Meow Tweet’s Face Cream.
-
Clean your hair with Soap Gauldron’s Shampoo and Conditioner Bars.
How to Avoid Ethylhexylglycerin
Look out for products containing ethylhexylglycerin or other names for the ingredient.
These include [3]:
-
Sensiva CS 50
-
1,2-Propanediol, 3-(2-ethylhexyl) oxy-
-
3-((2-Ethylhexyl) oxy) - 1
-
2-Propanediol
-
EthylhexylGlycerin
-
Octoxyglycerin
Resources
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26876063/
[2] https://journals.lww.com/dermatitis/Citation/2014/01000/Allergic_Contact_Dermatitis_From.13.aspx
[3] https://www.skinsafeproducts.com/ingredients/ethylhexylglycerin
