Propanediol (1,3‑Propanediol)

INCI Name

Propanediol

CAS Number

504‑63‑2

Raw Material Source

Corn sugar (renewable feedstock) may also be produced from glycerol, a by‑product of biodiesel production.

Overview

Propanediol (1,3‑propanediol) is a multifunctional, bio‑based ingredient used in modern cosmetic formulations for its ability to hydrate, soften, and enhance product performance. Produced through the fermentation of corn sugar, it offers a renewable alternative to petrochemical glycols and is fully biodegradable, supporting low‑impact, sustainable formulation design.

Cosmetic Functions

• Humectant — attracts and retains moisture in skin and hair
• Emollient — softens and smooths the skin barrier
• Solvent — improves solubility of botanical extracts and active ingredients
• Preservative Booster — enhances the efficacy of specific preservative systems
• Sensory Enhancer — contributes to slip, spreadability, and overall texture

Cited: 1, 2

Production & Sustainability

Bio‑Based Fermentation

Propanediol is primarily produced by fermenting corn sugar into a 3‑carbon diol molecule. It can also be made from glycerol, a biodiesel byproduct, which further strengthens its sustainability profile.
Cited: 4, 6

Environmental Considerations

Corn cultivation requires land, water, fertilizers, and pesticides, all of which contribute to environmental impact. Transportation and processing of corn also generate greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.
Cited: 12, 13

Manufacturing Process

Production typically involves fermentation, extraction, purification, and stabilization. These stages may generate waste or emissions, though modern bioprocessing continues to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Cited: 18

Biodegradability

1,3‑Propanediol is fully biodegradable and breaks down naturally in the environment, minimizing long‑term ecological impact.
Cited: 10

Skin Compatibility & Safety

Propanediol is widely regarded as safer and less irritating than propylene glycol. It is well‑tolerated by sensitive skin and is commonly used in clean‑beauty, dermatologist‑tested, and fragrance‑free formulations.
Cited: 20, 21

Comparison to Propylene Glycol

Compared to propylene glycol, propanediol offers:

• Lower irritation potential
• Better skin compatibility
• A renewable, bio‑based origin
• A smaller environmental footprint due to fermentation‑based production

EPA documentation supports a higher irritation potential of propylene glycol, reinforcing propanediol as a gentler alternative.
Cited: 22, 23

Applications in Natural Moxy Formulations

Propanediol enhances texture, hydration, and active delivery in several of our high‑performance serums:

• Crown Peptide Serum — Peptide‑rich support for hair growth
• EvenTone Awakening Serum — Brightening and tone‑balancing formula
• Hyaluronic Acid Serum — Deep hydration and plumping

Related Ingredients

Vitamin E | Coconut Oil | Panthenol

Citations 

1. Humblebee & Me — Propanediol overview
2. SpecialChem INCI database
3. Wikipedia — 1,3‑Propanediol (chemical structure + fermentation pathway)
4. Biotechnology for Biofuels — Glycerol‑based production
5. CovationBio Zemea Brochure
6. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation — Corn agriculture impacts
7. USDA — Corn ethanol GHG profile
8. IntechOpen — Environmental impacts of 1,3‑PDO production
9. Healthline — Propanediol safety
10. Byrdie — Skin compatibility
11. MDPI Fermentation — Comparative environmental impact
12. EPA — Propylene glycol irritation documentation