Propylene carbonate serves as an active component in skincare and cosmetic products. Its main role involves dissolving or suspending other ingredients within a formulation and reducing its thickness.
Propylene glycol, a small alcohol that readily dissolves in water, is a commonly found ingredient in cosmetics and personal care items. It is a synthetic substance obtained through the hydration process of propylene oxide, derived from petroleum sources. Consequently, propylene carbonate can also be regarded as a petroleum-derived compound. It appears as a clear and odorless liquid.
In addition to its use in the cosmetic industry, propylene carbonate can be found in select adhesives and paint removers. It also acts as a plasticizer, meaning it enhances the plasticity of materials or decreases their viscosity.
Within cosmetics and skincare products, propylene carbonate primarily serves as a solvent, effectively dissolving other ingredients. Typically, it is utilized at concentrations ranging from less than 0.1% to 5%. Propylene carbonate finds application in the formulation of makeup, particularly in lipstick, eye shadow, mascara, and various skin cleansing products.
As a solvent, propylene carbonate aids in the dissolution or suspension of other ingredients without altering their properties. This enables an even distribution of all components in a cosmetic formulation, resulting in the desired consistency of the product.
Moreover, solvents such as propylene carbonate are employed to reduce the viscosity and thin out formulations. Viscosity refers to the measure of “thickness.” Lowering the viscosity of a formulation makes it easier to spread on the skin or hair. Solvents can also enhance the effectiveness of active ingredients by promoting their absorption into the skin.
The safety of propylene carbonate has been evaluated by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel, a body responsible for assessing the safety of skincare and cosmetic products. Clinical studies have shown that undiluted propylene carbonate can cause moderate irritation to the eyes and skin, but it is non-toxic when inhaled.
Products containing up to 20% propylene carbonate were found to be moderately irritating to human skin, although they were determined to be non-sensitizing, non-phototoxic, and non-photosensitizing. It is important to note that this concentration is significantly higher than the concentrations commonly used in cosmetic formulations, which typically range from less than 0.1% to 5%. After reviewing the scientific data, the Expert Panel concluded that propylene carbonate is safe for use as a cosmetic ingredient under current practices and concentrations.
In conclusion, propylene carbonate plays a crucial role in skincare and cosmetic products as a solvent and viscosity-adjusting agent. It effectively dissolves ingredients, improves texture, and enhances spreadability. Despite moderate irritancy at high concentrations, propylene carbonate is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. Its versatile properties make it a valuable ingredient in the formulation of various skincare and cosmetic products.
Polylactic acid, commonly referred to as PLA, is a renewable and organic thermoplastic monomer derived from sources like corn starch or sugar cane. Unlike most plastics that are produced from fossil fuels through petroleum distillation and polymerization, PLA production utilizes biomass resources.
Sodium dichloroisocyanurate, derived from chlorinated hydroxy triazine, is a sodium salt widely utilized as a source of chlorine, specifically in the form of hypochlorous acid, for water disinfection purposes.
Propylene carbonate is a petroleum-derived ingredient used in skincare and cosmetics. It acts as a solvent, dissolving other ingredients, and helps adjust the thickness of formulations. It enhances product texture and spreadability. Propylene carbonate has been deemed safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations typically used, according to safety assessments.
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