Common Name(s): Propylene glycol citrate,propylene glycol citrate,cosmetic functional ingredient,specific formulation active

CAS Number: N/a

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Provides polyol humectant moisture retention and co-solvent activity from multiple hydroxyl group water-binding chemistry.

Why It's Used: Propylene glycol citrate is selected for its citrate triester ester — the c-chain length provides polar emolliency with chelating antioxidant contribution from the three carboxylate groups, which distinguishes propylene glycol citrate from esters of adjacent chain lengths in the same polarity tier.

How It Works: Hydroxyl groups h-bond water molecules (5–7 per oh) for hygroscopic retention; alkyl chain controls lipophilicity — short: humectant; long: emollient.

Typically Found In: Cosmetic formulations

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Active ingredient – cosmetic active

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%–10%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Conditional

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Commercially produced for cosmetic use. verify vegan/halal status with supplier.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic

Sensitivity Concerns: Well-tolerated by most skin types.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile at recommended concentrations. ewg score: 1–2.

Works Well With: Standard skincare actives

Avoid Combining With: No known significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Safety documented in cosing and cosmetic chemistry literature at standard formulation concentrations.

Last Verified: Cosing database,propylene glycol citrate technical review

Primary Sources: 2026-03-22