propylene glycol
Noun: A synthetic organic compound (C₃H₈O₂) that is a colorless, odorless, viscous liquid. It is miscible with water and has a faintly sweet taste. It is hygroscopic (absorbs water from the air) and is used for its solvent, humectant, and antifreeze properties.
Propylene glycol is primarily used as an industrial chemical and additive. Its key functions are: * To absorb and retain moisture (as a humectant). * To lower the freezing point of liquids (as an antifreeze). * To dissolve other substances (as a solvent). * To stabilize formulations and maintain consistency.
- In Cosmetics: is commonly listed as an ingredient in lotions to prevent them from drying out.
- In Food: Some food colorings and flavor extracts use as a solvent.
- In Industry: is a safer alternative to ethylene glycol in automotive antifreeze and aircraft de-icing fluid.
- In Medicine: Certain oral, injectable, and topical medications contain as a carrier solvent.
- Pharmaceutical Grade: Refers to a highly purified form of propylene glycol suitable for use in medicines and inhalable products like asthma nebulizers.
- "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS): A designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for propylene glycol when used as a direct food additive, indicating it is considered safe by experts under intended conditions of use.
- 1,2-Propanediol: The systematic IUPAC chemical name for propylene glycol.
- PG: A common abbreviation.
- Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (PGME): A related compound used as a solvent, derived from propylene glycol.
- 1,2-Dihydroxypropane
- Methyl ethylene glycol (Note: These are technical chemical synonyms; "propylene glycol" is the standard common name.)
While propylene glycol has many approved uses, the reference context notes it "can be absorbed through the skin with harmful effects." This refers to potential issues with: * Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience skin irritation or contact dermatitis from products containing it. * Systemic Toxicity: Harmful effects are primarily associated with very high levels of ingestion or exposure, which is uncommon in typical consumer use. Regulatory bodies set limits for its use in food, drugs, and cosmetics to ensure safety.
- a sweet colorless, viscous, hygroscopic liquid used as an antifreeze and in brake fluid and also as a humectant in cosmetics and personal care items although it can be absorbed through the skin with harmful effects