Functions and Effects of Propylene Glycol

Propylene Glycol: Functions and Effects 1. Humectant: Functions as a moisturizer via the same hydration mechanism as petrolatum, but without petrolatum’s greasy or sticky texture. 2. Antifreeze agent: Lowers the freezing point of water, preventing the product from freezing at subzero temperatures and thereby avoiding stability issues. 3. Penetration enhancer: When used as a penetration enhancer, propylene glycol serves as an active ingredient in the formulation, facilitating rapid transdermal absorption of topical patches; it is commonly used in combination with fatty acids or azones.