Clarification on Butylene Glycol vs. Propylene Glycol

Thank you for your question regarding the comparison between Butylene Glycol and Propylene Glycol. It appears you found conflicting information from an external website compared to the information on MySkinRecipes.

Based on reliable sources and the information available from MySkinRecipes, the information on the external website you linked contains inaccuracies, particularly regarding the safety and irritation potential of these two ingredients.

Here's a clarification:

• Butylene Glycol: Contrary to the external website's claim, Butylene Glycol is generally considered more gentle and causes less skin irritation than Propylene Glycol. It is often recommended as an alternative for individuals who experience sensitivity or allergic reactions to Propylene Glycol. While it is true that consuming large amounts of any glycol can be harmful, Butylene Glycol is widely used and considered safe for cosmetic application by regulatory bodies like the FDA and in regions like the European Union when used appropriately.
• Propylene Glycol: While Propylene Glycol is a very common and effective ingredient used as a solvent and humectant in cosmetics and even food (in appropriate grades and concentrations), it is known to have a higher potential for causing skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals compared to Butylene Glycol.

The staff response you included correctly points out that the information from the external website is not accurate and directs you to reputable sources such as Nuskin, Paula's Choice, the European Union's Cosing database, and the International Journal of Toxicology, all of which support the safety profile of these ingredients and indicate that Butylene Glycol is the gentler option.

Therefore, the information on MySkinRecipes stating that Butylene Glycol is highly gentle is consistent with widely accepted scientific and regulatory data, and it is generally considered more gentle than Propylene Glycol.