Used as a moisturizing agent in cosmetics and personal care products due to its humectant properties, helping retain skin moisture. Functions as a solvent and stabilizer in formulations, improving product texture and shelf life. Exhibits mild antimicrobial activity, allowing it to serve as a preservative booster in paraben-free and formaldehyde-releaser-free systems. Commonly found in lotions, serums, cleansers, and makeup. Also used in some industrial applications as a chemical intermediate and in aqueous systems to modify viscosity and stability.