Hexylene Glycol
HEX-il-een GLY-kol
What Is Hexylene Glycol?
A multifunctional ingredient used as a solvent, humectant, and viscosity-decreasing agent in hair products. It also has mild antimicrobial properties.
Source: Synthetic organic compound
Origin: Synthetic
Also known as: 2-Methyl-2,4-pentanediol
What Does Hexylene Glycol Do to Your Hair?
Functions as a solvent and viscosity adjuster that helps create optimal product textures. Provides mild humectant properties and has some preservative-boosting antimicrobial activity. Helps other ingredients dissolve and remain stable.
Best For
All hair types (functional ingredient)
Not Recommended For
Sensitive scalp at high concentrations
Concentration Matters
0.5-2% in products
Hair Type Compatibility
Method Compatibility
Safety & Regulation
Generally safe at standard cosmetic concentrations (typically under 2%). Can be irritating at higher concentrations. The CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) expert panel considers it safe up to 2% in leave-on products.
FDA Status: Generally Recognized As Safe
FDA permits use in cosmetics. CIR considers safe at concentrations up to 2% in leave-on and higher in rinse-off products.
EWG Score: 3/10
HairAide Verdict
A functional ingredient that most people will never need to think about. Safe at standard concentrations and does its job keeping products properly formulated. No unique hair benefits or concerns.
Products That Contain Hexylene Glycol
Conditioners, shampoos, styling products, hair treatments
Alternatives to Hexylene Glycol
If you want to avoid Hexylene Glycol, look for products with these ingredients instead:
Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Hexylene Glycol has a safety rating of 7/10 and is generally considered safe for use in hair products. Generally safe at standard cosmetic concentrations (typically under 2%). Can be irritating at higher concentrations. The CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) expert panel considers it safe up to 2% in leave-on products.
Hexylene Glycol is CG-method approved and is generally considered safe for curly hair.
Yes, Hexylene Glycol is approved for the Curly Girl method.
Some alternatives to Hexylene Glycol include: Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol
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