Ingredient Guide

Pentylene Glycol

Also known as: Pentylene Glycol, 1,2-Pentanediol

All skin types

What It Is

A multifunctional glycol used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and mild preservative booster.

What It Does

Attracts moisture, improves formula texture, and enhances the efficacy of other preservatives in the formula.

Best For

Lightweight hydrationFormula stability

Benefits

  • Humectant — draws moisture to the skin
  • Antimicrobial properties that boost formula preservation
  • Light feel, improves spreadability

When to Be Careful

  • At very high concentrations, can occasionally cause tingling in sensitive skin

Commonly Found In

SerumsTonersWater-based formulas

Products Containing Pentylene Glycol

Niacinamide 5% Face and Body Emulsion
The Ordinary
Lactic Acid 10% + HA
The Ordinary
PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum
The Ordinary
Argireline Solution 10%
The Ordinary
Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution
The Ordinary
Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%
The Ordinary

FAQs About Pentylene Glycol

What does pentylene glycol do in skincare?
It acts as a humectant (draws moisture), improves the feel and spreadability of the formula, and has mild antimicrobial properties that support the preservation system.
← Back to Product Decoder