Is Propylene Glycol Safe in Deodorant?
What is Propylene Glycol?
Propylene glycol, also known as 1,2-propanediol, is used as a skin conditioning agent, solvent, and humectants. It is also used in e-cigarette e-juice, salad dressings, medications, supplements, and antifreeze. It is used widely in cosmetic items.
Is Propylene Glycol Natural?
Propylene glycol can be derived from natural ingredients, but it doesn't exist in nature as a compound itself.
Is Propylene Glycol Toxic?
Propylene glycol can be toxic at high doses or when administered overlong periods.
"Reported adverse effects from PG include central nervous system (CNS) toxicity, hyperosmolarity, hemolysis, cardiac arrhythmia, seizures, agitation, and lactic acidosis" (Source)
"A 15-month-old boy who received large doses of vitamin C suspended in PG had episodes of unresponsiveness, tachypnea, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and hypoglycemia.3 Seizures have been reported following ingestion of PG used as a vehicle to administer vitamin D." (Source)
PG is also known as a "penetration enhancer," a chemical that's able to penetrate the skin. This can be used for drug delivery, but in cosmetic use, it may allow other chemicals in a formula to pass through the skin barrier. (Source)
Used in e-cigarette juice, PG has been found to combine with flavoring compounds to create chemicals called acetals, that can create inflammation in the lungs. (Source)
Is Propylene Glycol Vegan?
Propylene glycol is typically extracted from vegetable oils or petroleum products, and is typically vegan. However, ask the company of the product you're using for specifics of the particular product they use.
Is Propylene Glycol eco-friendly?
PG can be made in more sustainable ways, but it depends on the company and which manufacturer they're using. Bio-based propylene glycol is more sustainable than petroleum-based PG. Currently, approximately 900,000 metric tons of petroleum is used to produce propylene glycol each year. (Source)
Is Propylene Glycol a Skin Irritant?
PG can be a skin irritant. In a deodorant product it can lead to increased friction in the underarm and thus irritation (intertrigo). It is also a common cause for both irritant and allergic contact dermatitis, especially in a leave on product like a lotion or deodorant. (Source)
The Bottom Line
Propylene glycol can be harmful in large amounts, can be a penetration enhancer, is widely made from petroleum, and can cause skin irritation.