Butylene Glycol Laurate

What is Butylene Glycol Laurate?

Butylene Glycol Laurate is a synthetic ester derived from 1,3-butylene glycol, a diol alcohol often produced via petrochemical processes or fermentation, and lauric acid, a saturated fatty acid sourced from coconut or palm kernel oils. This clear to pale yellow, oily liquid belongs to the glycol ester family commonly used in skincare formulations like moisturizers, cleansers, and lotions. It works by lowering surface tension between oil and water phases, enabling stable emulsions with smooth textures. As an emollient, it mimics skin's natural lipids to fill surface imperfections and enhance slip. In surfactant roles, it aids gentle cleansing by forming micelles that lift dirt without stripping moisture. Its skin conditioning properties help maintain suppleness, making it suitable for daily personal care products where texture and stability matter.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Emollient

Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.

Surfactant

Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.

Emulsifying agent

Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Skin conditioning agent

Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Provides emolliency to soften and smooth skin texture.

Supports emulsification for even blending in creams and lotions.

Acts as a mild surfactant to assist in cleansing routines.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Individuals with dry or rough skin seeking added softness.	People with known allergies to glycol derivatives or lauric acid.
Users of emulsion-based products like moisturizers and serums.	Those sensitive to ester-based emollients in high concentrations.
Those preferring non-comedogenic ingredients in their routines.	Individuals preferring fully natural, plant-derived alternatives only.

Safety Notes

Rated low hazard by EWG, indicating minimal risk in typical use.
Recognized as safe for cosmetic applications by regulatory reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions about Butylene Glycol Laurate

What is Butylene Glycol Laurate used for in cosmetics?

It serves as an emollient to soften skin, emulsifier to blend ingredients, and surfactant for mild cleansing.

Is Butylene Glycol Laurate safe for sensitive skin?

It has a low safety rating and low irritation potential from authoritative reviews.

Does it cause acne?

No, with a comedogenic rating of 0, it is unlikely to clog pores.