Rate My SPF

Dipropylene Glycol

What Dipropylene Glycol is & what it does

A lightweight solvent and humectant that thins formulas, dissolves fragrance and actives, and adds slip. It contributes to a smooth, fast-absorbing texture.

What is Dipropylene Glycol and what does it do in sunscreen?

Dipropylene Glycol is a lightweight solvent and humectant. In sunscreen it thins the formula, dissolves fragrance and actives, draws in a little water to help hydration, and adds slip. The result is a smoother, faster-absorbing texture without heaviness.

Is Dipropylene Glycol safe?

Yes. Dipropylene Glycol is a widely used, well-studied cosmetic solvent and humectant considered safe at the levels used in skincare and sunscreen. It is generally non-irritating for most people. It should not be confused with propylene glycol or ethylene glycol; despite similar names, it is its own ingredient with a long history of cosmetic use.

Does Dipropylene Glycol clog pores?

No. Dipropylene Glycol is a thin, water-compatible solvent rather than an oil or wax, so it is not considered comedogenic. It actually helps formulas feel lighter and absorb faster. Breakouts are far more likely to trace back to the richer emollients in a product.

Is Dipropylene Glycol a humectant or a solvent?

It is both. Dipropylene Glycol works as a solvent that dissolves fragrance and actives and thins the formula, and as a humectant that attracts a little water to support hydration. This dual role is why it shows up in lightweight, fast-absorbing sunscreens. It is a functional helper rather than a star active.

What else is Dipropylene Glycol called?

On a label it appears under its INCI name, Dipropylene Glycol, sometimes shortened to DPG in technical contexts. It is a distinct ingredient from propylene glycol, even though the names look alike. It usually sits in the middle of an ingredient list alongside the other solvents and humectants.

Sunscreens with Dipropylene Glycol

We rate 631 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

← All ingredients