1,2-Butanediol

1,2-Butanediol is a cosmetic ingredient used as a humectant, skin conditioning agent. It is used in 11 products in our dataset. It is regulated in the EU (listed in a Cosmetics Regulation annex).

INCI name1,2-BUTANEDIOL
FunctionHUMECTANT, SKIN CONDITIONING, SOLVENT, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING
CAS number584-03-2
EC number209-527-2
Prevalence11 products (0.01% of dataset)
Most used inSkincare
EU statusRestricted (annex )

Used in

Toners 18.2%Ampoules 9.1%BB, CC, Tinted Moisturizers 9.1%Face Primers 9.1%Foundations 9.1%General Moisturizers 9.1%

Frequently asked

What does 1,2-Butanediol do in skincare?
1,2-Butanediol functions as a humectant, skin conditioning agent in cosmetic formulas.
Is 1,2-Butanediol allowed in cosmetics?
Yes, but it is regulated in the EU — it appears in a Cosmetics Regulation annex with usage conditions.
What products contain 1,2-Butanediol?
It is most commonly found in Skincare products, especially toners (18.2% of its uses).

Manufacturers with experience using 1,2-Butanediol

Match with vetted US contract manufacturers that have hands-on experience formulating with this ingredient.