Pentylene Glycol

A naturally or synthetically derived preservative that exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits. It also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives. Pentylene glycol can also serve as a moisturizing humectant and solvent.
Moisturizing
Other functions
Origin
Pentylene Glycol

Overview

Pentylene glycol is an ingredient that can be derived from vegetables or from petrochemicals. It is most frequently used as a preservative because it exhibits effective antifungal and antibacterial traits.

This ingredient also acts as a booster for more traditional preservatives, so it is commonly paired with other preservatives, such as phenylpropanol or chlorphenesin.

In addition to functioning as a preservative, pentylene glycol can also serve as a solvent. It is useful for dissolving substances together, that would not normally be compatible, such as water and polar emollient esters, like C12-15 alkyl benzoate.

According to the manufacturer, it also has moisturizing properties.