Propylene glycol in cosmetics. Benefits and harm to hair, facial skin, rules for the use of funds

Many cosmetics contain Propylene glycol. It is used as a water-retaining agent, thanks to which the product retains its qualities for a long period of time.

What is Propylene Glycol, Chemical Formula

Propylene glycol is a viscous liquid with a low odor and colorless texture, a refined product. Chemical formula: C3H802

Synonym:

• 1,2-propanediol;
• 1,2-dioxypropane.

International name: PROPYLENE GLYCOL CAS No: 57-55-6.

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Useful properties of the substance

Propylene glycol has unique properties:

• excellent solvent;
• raises and lowers the temperature of liquids;
• hygroscopic;
• low toxic;
• extends the shelf life of the goods;
• destroys bacteria.

Examples of Uses Propylene Glycol and Usage Guidelines Propylene glycol in cosmetics is a solvent that is compatible with many ingredients and is therefore most often used in such cosmetic products.

For instance:

• shampoos;
  
• means for styling curls;
• means for cleaning teeth;
• deodorants;
• wet wipes;
• hand and face cream;
• decorative cosmetics.

Also, the substance is used in medicines:

• bactericidal and anti-inflammatory compounds for the treatment of certain diseases;
• compositions for the restoration of wound surfaces after serious burns, etc.

The substance is used in such food products:

• as part of fat-free ice cream;
• as part of energy, non-alcoholic, low-alcohol carbonated drinks;
• in whiskey;
• as part of flour products, sweets;
• as part of a dye, flavor, seasonings.

Shampoos

The chemical is often found in shampoos and curl balms. Thanks to him, after washing, they become softer and smoother. After a perm or any coloring, the hair becomes shiny, soft, and smooth. For curly curls, the substance will help prevent frizz, and will also make each curl neat.

Propylene glycol will definitely benefit dry and brittle hair. In combination with oils such as olive, jojoba, almonds, it will restore them, increase elasticity and protect against damage.

The chemical can be found in such brands:

• Garnier;
  
• Shauma;
• Pantene;
• Estel and others.

Shampoo rules:

• before washing your hair, you need to comb the curls;
• the water temperature should be optimal;
• you cannot wash your hair with hot water;
• the hair is first moistened, then the shampoo is foamed in the hands and applied to the curls;
• wash your head with massage movements, then distribute the product along the entire length of the hair;
• the hair is rinsed until a squeak appears, this is a signal that the hair has been well washed from the shampoo;
• it is not recommended to wash your hair at night;
• it is advisable to rinse the hair with a weak vinegar solution or acidified water after shampooing;
• wrap hair in a cotton towel and dry naturally.

Air conditioners

After shampooing, it is acceptable to use a hair conditioner. The most popular conditioner is considered to be a rinse aid.

It happens:

• lightweight, apply regularly;
• medicinal, used 2-3 times a week;
• regenerating, used as a mask.

As part of the product, propylene glycol helps related substances penetrate deeper into the layers of the skin.

Application rules:

• when using an express conditioner, spray it onto dry curls and leave it for the whole day. You can also spray the preparation on the palm of your hand and moisten the curls with them;
• after washing your hair, apply a few drops of the product to slightly moistened strands, then rinse off for a while;
  
• the protective agent must be applied to the ends and then moved up;
• no conditioner is applied to the roots.

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Hair styling products

Moisturizing sprays, as well as softening cosmetic oils make curls manageable and smooth, as a result of which they are easy to comb.

The spray has the following properties:

• moisturizes;
• protects;
• restores.

In order to save money, some manufacturers of hair styling products add mineral oils or lanolin to the composition instead of natural ingredients. Also in the composition you can often find propylene glycol or glycerin. Due to these substances, a moisturizing effect is obtained.

A particular effect can be expected from glycerin-based moisturizers in high air humidity, as it is able to capture moisture from the air.

Propylene glycol in high concentrations is not used as a moisturizing effect in the composition of products, since it draws moisture from the deep layers of the scalp. For better penetration of active ingredients into the scalp and curls, the substance is used in low concentrations.

The substance can be found in such brands:

• Matrix;
• Garnier;
• Londa.

Application rules:

• moisturizing spray should be applied to washed curls;
• depending on the type, the spray is used on wet or dry curls;
• two-phase formulations must be shaken before use;
• first, the curls need to be combed, then apply a spray;
• it is not recommended to use a moisturizer during installation with curling irons or irons;
• when applying the product to dry curls, it is enough to sprinkle 1 time, the procedure is repeated on wet strands during styling.

Cosmetics

Propylene glycol in the leading place in the list of ingredients is found in:

• creams;
• tonal bases;
• lipstick;
• lotions;
• means for strengthening nails;
• other cosmetics.

Especially the highest saturation can be seen in such products:

• shaving cream;
• lotion for makeup remover;
• tanning products;
  
• disinfecting wet wipes;
• hygiene lotions;
• cleaning paste for dental hygiene.

Thanks to him, when using foundation, the skin breathes. Lipstick moisturizes the lips.

Propylene glycol in cosmetics has the following actions:

• draws out plant extracts: the substance is able to draw out many of the most valuable ingredients for cosmetics from medicinal plants;
• creates microemulsions, due to it, liquid is retained, the skin is cleansed;
• makes the skin soft and moisturized: the substance binds water molecules, as a result of which liquid is retained and formed on the surface layer of the skin and the nail plate;
• preserves the product for a long time: as an emulsifier, it does not allow the face products to break down into component ingredients. Without it, the oil and water layers in the lipstick or cream will separate, and microorganisms will appear between them, and the active ingredients will lose their activity;
• prevents the spread of microorganisms in cosmetics, thanks to it, the development of pathogens can be prevented;
• increases the effect of the product.

In the composition of creams, the substance is found in the following series:

• Nivea;
• Dove;
• "Clean line";
• "100 beauty recipes" and others.

Toothpaste

Propylene glycol is added to the toothpaste in order for the components to mix better. Also, due to its antifungal and antimicrobial properties, it is used in toothpaste as a preservative and as a moisture-retaining component, that is, it prevents the toothpaste from drying out during storage.

Rules for using toothpaste:

• brush your tongue before brushing your teeth. You can use a regular teaspoon. It is important to brush your tongue after waking up to remove plaque that has accumulated overnight;
  
• teeth must be cleaned for 3 minutes, first they are cleaned from the outside, then from the inside, and at the end of the procedure, the chewing teeth are cleaned;
• it is very important to brush your teeth before going to bed;
• if possible, teeth are cleaned after each meal;
• after drinking sour juice or eaten sour fruit, you should not brush your teeth immediately, you must wait 30 minutes.

Deodorants

Propylene glycol in cosmetics dissolves the accompanying ingredients well.

Therefore, the substance is suitable for making:

• lipstick;
• deodorants;
• shampoos;
• other personal hygiene products.

Application rules:

• antiperspirants and deodorants are recommended to be applied only to clean and dry skin;
• it is necessary to wash off the composition at the end of the day;
• do not use funds on damaged skin;
• do not use an antiperspirant before sports;
• the shorter the shelf life of the product, the better.

Personal hygiene products

Propylene glycol in personal care products helps soften and moisturize the skin without leaving it sticky. It also helps to enhance the flavor.

These tools include:

• soap;
• shampoo;
• tooth cleaner;
• shaving agent;
• tampons, pads;
  
• wet wipes;
• antiperspirant, deodorant;
• gel for intimate hygiene.

Attention to labels

According to the standard, each manufacturer must indicate all the components that are in the composition of the cosmetic product. In the first place on the list is what is most contained in the product, then the ingredients are listed in decreasing order of their quantity.

Propylene glycol in cosmetics at the top of the ingredient list means that its concentration is quite high. Indeed, without it, none of the elements will be able to penetrate deep into the skin. Therefore, the cosmetic product will become useless.

The permissible content of this additive in the composition of cosmetic products is not more than 10%.

It is also worth paying attention to the fact that if a woman does not have cosmetics for face care based on preservatives and parabens in her everyday life, and the allergic reaction does not go away, you should pay attention to the composition of the product.

Since cosmetics from the pharmacy chain contain 90% propylene glycol. For severe dermatitis, only 100% natural products should be used.

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Harm and toxicity of glycol for hair, skin

At acceptable doses, the substance is not dangerous for the body.

However, if used in unlimited quantities, the following happens:

• acne in the form of large, painful pimples;
• dehydration of the skin: at first the skin will be elastic and moisturized, then it will become thinner and drier, and wrinkles will be more pronounced;
• clogging of pores: on the surface of the skin, the substance forms a film that disrupts the process of gas exchange, as a result of which couperosis and acne appear on the face;
• allergic reaction: urticaria, dermatitis, Quincke's edema, anaphylactic shock;
  
• fragility and increased dryness of hair.

What will happen to a person with frequent use of propylene glycol products?

With frequent use of products with propylene glycol, nothing will happen to a person. Because the chemical is non-toxic and does not harm the body. Even if it is accidentally taken inside in large quantities, poisoning will not follow. In case of contact with skin, it is enough to rinse the area with water.

Alternative substances

The only alternative to propylene glycol at the moment is glycerin. It also acts as a solvent, thickener, humectant, or filler. However, recently the American company DuPont has produced a new glucose. It is made from corn sugar that was developed for cosmetic use.

This alternative is worthy of today's glycerin as well as other petroleum glycols.

Propylene glycol is contained in cosmetics in a safe amount and does not cause any concern. It is also approved for use in children's cosmetics. However, drugs with propylene glycol are contraindicated in people who have had an allergic reaction of the body (hypersensitivity) to this substance, so as not to harm the state of health.

Author: Belaeva Kristina

Article design:Lozinsky Oleg

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