Propanediol 1,3 – Natural, Eco-Friendly Humectant for Skin & Haircare Formulations
Propanediol 1,3 (also written as 1,3-Propanediol or Propanediol 1,3) is a plant-derived humectant obtained through the fermentation of renewable corn sugar. It serves as a natural alternative to propylene glycol and glycerin, offering superior skin-feel, moisture retention, and formulation stability.
Highly favored by cosmetic formulators and clean beauty brands, this ingredient provides exceptional hydration with a non-tacky, lightweight texture, making it suitable for a broad range of skincare, haircare, and personal care applications.
Key Features & Benefits
1. 100% Natural & Sustainable
Derived from corn sugar, Propanediol 1,3 is vegan, renewable, biodegradable, and approved by Ecocert and Health Canada, aligning with clean-label product goals.
2. Moisture Retention
Acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin and hair while improving hydration and smoothness without heaviness.
3. Enhanced Sensory Feel
Unlike traditional glycols, 1,3-Propanediol delivers a smooth, non-sticky finish that improves the sensorial experience in emulsions and gels.
4. Preservative Booster
Enhances the efficacy of preservatives such as phenoxyethanol, extending microbial protection while allowing for lower preservative usage rates.
5. Versatile Functionality
Adds mild viscosity, improves clarity in surfactant systems, and supports stable, transparent formulations in skincare and haircare products.
Technical Specifications
- INCI Name: Propanediol
- CAS Number: 504-63-2
- Chemical Formula: C₃H₈O₂
- Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
- Odor: Mild, sweet
- pH Range: 4.5–7.0
- Boiling Point: 211–217°C
- Solubility: Soluble in water
Recommended Usage & Application Rates
- General Use: 3–10% in most skincare and haircare formulations
- High-Performance Use: Up to 20% in specific applications like gels or serums
Suggested Uses for Propanediol 1,3
Skincare Formulations
- Acts as a humectant and solvent in creams, serums, and toners.
- Enhances penetration of active ingredients and maintains product freshness.
Haircare Products
- Reduces static and frizz while improving detangling and shine.
- Ideal for shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments.
Natural & Organic Cosmetics
- A direct replacement for propylene glycol or glycerin in clean-label formulations.
Suncare & Makeup
- Adds hydration and improves spreadability in sunscreens, primers, and BB creams.
Why Formulators Choose Propanediol 1,3
Professional formulators use 1,3-Propanediol to achieve effective moisture balance, smooth application, and consistent preservation in products.
It functions as both a humectant and a solvent, helping solubilize ingredients that may otherwise be challenging to incorporate.
At Natural Bulk Supplies, our Propanediol 1,3 is cosmetic-grade, plant-sourced, and available in bulk packaging to meet the needs of manufacturers and R&D labs across the USA.
If you’re looking to buy Propanediol 1,3 at competitive pricing or explore propanediol cost for bulk supply, our team provides full support for formulation and technical documentation.
Storage & Safety Guidelines
- Storage: Store in a cool, dark, and dry place. Keep tightly sealed to maintain purity.
- Shelf Life: Stable under normal storage conditions for 24 months.
- Safety Note: For external use only. Always conduct patch testing when introducing new ingredients.
FAQs About Propanediol 1,3
- What is Propanediol in skincare?
Propanediol is a natural humectant that draws moisture into the skin, improving hydration while leaving a smooth, non-sticky finish. - Is 1,3-Propanediol better than glycerin?
Yes. It provides similar moisturizing benefits but with a lighter, less tacky texture, making it ideal for modern formulations. - Can I use Propanediol 1,3 in hair products?
Yes. It helps improve detangling, adds shine, and reduces static in conditioners and styling products. - What is the cost of Propanediol 1,3?
Propanediol cost varies based on volume and purity. Natural Bulk Supplies offers competitive bulk pricing for formulators. - Where can I buy Propanediol 1,3 in bulk?
You can buy Propanediol 1,3 directly from Natural Bulk Supplies, a trusted supplier for cosmetic and personal care ingredients in the USA.
