1,2-Pentanediol (Pentylene Glycol) - Natural-Source Multifunctional Cosmetic Preservative & Humectant

Multifunctional cosmetic ingredient that can be used as a moisturizer, antimicrobial agent, and solubilizer.It also enhances the stability, permeability, and absorption properties of products. When used as an alternative preservative, 2% 1,2-pentanediol provides some antimicrobial activity, while 3.2% achieves broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects.

1,2-Pentanediol is a straight-chain alkanediol with distinct polar and non-polar characteristics, which imparts properties different from other diols. 1,2-Pentanediol, with the chemical formula C₅H₁₂O₂, is a colorless, transparent liquid that is stable at room temperature, not easily oxidized, and has low irritation to the eyes and skin. It has a low viscosity and good water solubility, making it suitable as a solvent. It can be used as a solvent, preservative, and moisturizing agent in many cosmetic ingredients. 

COA, MSDS, TDS available upon request.

Product Introduction

1,2-Pentanediol, also known as Pentylene Glycol, is a multifunctional diol of natural-source origin, widely applied in modern cosmetic and personal-care formulas. It acts both as an excellent skin humectant and an effective preservative booster. With mild antimicrobial activity, it can reduce the dosage of traditional preservatives and support "preservative-free" cosmetic claims for clean-beauty brands.

Key Benefits

• Natural-origin raw material, compliant with clean-beauty & ISO 16128 requirements

• Dual-function: moisturizing + antimicrobial preservation boosting

• Low-irritation, suitable for sensitive-skin, baby-care, sunscreen formulations

• Good synergistic effect with other cosmetic preservatives

• Excellent solvent for cosmetic active ingredients; improves water-resistance of sunscreen products

• Wide pH-range stability, compatible with most cosmetic raw materials

Typical Applications

• Skin-care lotion, cream, toner, serum

• Baby care products

• Sunscreen & sun-care cosmetics

• Preservative-free & clean-beauty formulations

• Hair-care personal-care products

Recommended Dosage

Common adding dosage ranges 1%–5% according to different cosmetic systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is Pentylene Glycol a real cosmetic preservative?

A: It is not listed as a regulated preservative ingredient, but delivers obvious antimicrobial performance as a preservative booster, helping lower traditional preservative loading in formulas.

Q2: Is your 1,2-Pentanediol natural-source?

A: Our cosmetic-grade Pentylene Glycol supports natural-origin technical index for clean-beauty formula development.

Q3: What is the recommended dosage in cosmetics?

A: Common adding dosage ranges 1%–5% according to different cosmetic systems.

Q4: Is Pentylene Glycol safe for sensitive skin?

A: Yes, 1,2-Pentanediol is known for its low-irritation profile and is widely used in sensitive-skin and baby-care formulations.

Looking for a reliable Pentylene Glycol supplier?

Weicheng Advanced Material (Shandong) Co., Ltd provides stable bulk supply for global cosmetic manufacturers.