Ingredient glossary
1,2-Hexanediol
On your shelf ✓What 1,2-Hexanediol does for your skin, who it suits, and what to watch for.
INCI: 1,2-Hexanediol
In short: 1,2-Hexanediol delivers preservation and hydration, suits most skin types, and the evidence behind it is moderate.
- What it does
- Preservation, hydration
- Best for
- Most skin types
- Evidence
- Moderate
The molecule
The Glow take
Quiet, essential, and nothing to fear.
1,2-Hexanediol keeps a product safe to use from the first pump to the last, at tiny amounts. Not something you pay a premium for.
— Maya
What it does
- preservation
- hydration
- solvent
moderate evidenceFormulation literature highlights 1,2-hexanediol as an effective booster across a wide pH range with low irritation and added moisturizing benefits.
On a label: usually effective at 0.5-3%.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- all
Approach with care
No specific group flagged to avoid it.
- Clogs poresLow
- Irritation riskLow
How it fits each skin type
- DrySuits
- CombinationSuits
- OilySuits
- SensitiveSuits
Where it fits in your routine
Plays well with
1,2-Hexanediol, answered
Is 1,2-Hexanediol safe during pregnancy?
Yes. 1,2-Hexanediol is considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As with anything, if you are unsure it is worth a quick word with your doctor or midwife.
Who should avoid 1,2-Hexanediol?
No specific group is flagged to avoid 1,2-Hexanediol. It is well tolerated by most skin. Still, introduce anything new one product at a time.
What concentration of 1,2-Hexanediol actually works?
1,2-Hexanediol tends to do its job in the 0.5 to 3% range. Much lower and it is likely underdosed.
Can you mix 1,2-Hexanediol with
This, for every label you own
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