Is propylene glycol the same as antifreeze?

Propylene glycol and antifreeze use different ingredients. Antifreeze uses ethylene glycol, which is a different and more toxic compound; propylene glycol is reviewed by CIR and FDA as safe in cosmetics and is also used as a carrier in foods and medications.

Can propylene glycol be absorbed through skin and harm me?

The published evidence does not support the concern that propylene glycol poisons the body at cosmetic use levels. Rare contact dermatitis has been reported in people with existing sensitivities, which is why very sensitive skin may want to patch test, but this does not make it hazardous for general use.

humectant · solvent

Propylene Glycol

Commonly feared, low concern·Strong evidence

A small humectant and solvent molecule that helps other ingredients dissolve and helps skin hold water. It is one of the most studied cosmetic ingredients and is considered safe at the concentrations used in personal care products.

The myth vs the evidence

The myth is that propylene glycol is "industrial antifreeze" that soaks into skin and poisons the body. Antifreeze uses ethylene glycol, a different and more toxic molecule; propylene glycol is a different compound that CIR and FDA consider safe in cosmetics, and it is also used as a carrier in foods and oral medications. Rare contact dermatitis has been reported in people with an existing sensitivity, which is why very sensitive skin may want to patch test, but this does not make it a hazardous ingredient for the general population.

Questions

Is propylene glycol the same as antifreeze?: Propylene glycol and antifreeze use different ingredients. Antifreeze uses ethylene glycol, which is a different and more toxic compound; propylene glycol is reviewed by CIR and FDA as safe in cosmetics and is also used as a carrier in foods and medications.
Can propylene glycol be absorbed through skin and harm me?: The published evidence does not support the concern that propylene glycol poisons the body at cosmetic use levels. Rare contact dermatitis has been reported in people with existing sensitivities, which is why very sensitive skin may want to patch test, but this does not make it hazardous for general use.

Products with Propylene Glycol

References

Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. A verdict is a reading of the published evidence, never a guarantee for your skin: any ingredient can irritate someone, so patch test new products and see a professional if you react. Concern is graded on cited evidence, never on hazard-score lists. See how we score.