Ingredient glossary

1,2-Hexanediol

INCI: 1,2-Hexanediol

Quietly necessary

A preservative doing an unglamorous but essential job: keeping the product safe to use. Not something you pay extra for.

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What it does

  • preservation
  • hydration
  • solvent

moderate evidenceFormulation literature highlights 1,2-hexanediol as an effective booster across a wide pH range with low irritation and added moisturizing benefits.

On a label: usually effective at 0.5-3%.

Who it's for, and who should skip it

Tends to suit

  • all

Approach with care

No specific group flagged to avoid it.

  • Clogs poresLow
  • Irritation riskLow

Plays well with

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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.