Description

What is 1,2-Hexanediol?

1,2-Hexanediol (INCI: 1,2-Hexanediol; CAS 6920-22-5) is a versatile, water-miscible vicinal diol supplied as a clear, colorless to pale yellow, mildly viscous liquid. It belongs to the family of multifunctional glycols widely used to build modern, skin-friendly preservation systems. Thanks to its six-carbon chain, it combines genuine humectant and skin-conditioning benefits with intrinsic antimicrobial activity, disrupting microbial membranes and boosting the performance of companion preservatives. It also improves the sensory profile of formulations, lending a smooth, elegant feel, and contributes to overall formulation stability. Compatible across a broad pH range and easy to incorporate, it is a staple in leave-on skin care, masks, wipes and products designed around mild or reduced-preservative concepts.

Key Benefits

• Moisturizing glycol: delivers lightweight, non-sticky hydration and supports a soft, conditioned skin feel.
• Antimicrobial support: intrinsic membrane activity helps control microorganisms and boosts preservation systems.
• Improves skin feel: adds smoothness and elegance to gels, serums, creams and lotions.
• Formulation stability: supports stable, clear systems and helps keep actives evenly dispersed.
• Broad compatibility: works over a wide pH range and with most conventional and natural preservatives.
• Mild and versatile: suitable for sensitive skin, baby care, masks and wet wipes.
• Liquid convenience: easy to incorporate, including in cold-process and sprayable products.

FAQ

Q1: Does 1,2-hexanediol replace preservatives entirely? A1: It has antimicrobial properties and is often the core of mild preservation blends, but challenge testing should determine whether a companion preservative is needed.

Q2: Is it natural or synthetic? A2: It is a synthetic high-purity glycol valued for consistent quality, mildness and multifunctional performance.

Q3: Why is it widely used in premium skin care? A3: Its combination of hydration, preservation support and elegant skin feel makes it ideal for mild, high-performance formulations.