Glycol
What Glycol is & what it does
Glycol is a general name for a small alcohol molecule carrying two hydroxyl groups, and in INCI listings it commonly refers to a simple glycol used as a solvent or humectant. In skincare and sunscreen formulas this kind of ingredient helps dissolve other components and can attract a small amount of water to the formula. A notable property is its water-loving structure, which makes it useful for keeping a product uniform and easy to spread.
Is Glycol safe?
Glycol on an ingredient list usually refers to a simple, well-studied glycol used as a solvent or humectant, and such ingredients are generally considered safe at cosmetic levels. The exact safety profile depends on which specific glycol the label refers to. If you are sensitive, patch testing a new product is sensible.
What does Glycol do in skincare?
Glycol typically works as a solvent and humectant in skincare and sunscreen formulas, helping dissolve other ingredients and attract a small amount of water. This supports a uniform, easy-to-spread product. It is a formulation helper rather than an active treatment ingredient.
Is Glycol natural or synthetic?
The glycols used in cosmetics are usually synthetic or made through processing, though some can be derived from plant sources. The precise origin depends on which glycol the label means and on the supplier. Because the term is general, the product's full ingredient list gives a clearer picture.
Sunscreens with Glycol
We rate 8 sunscreens that contain it:
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Synchroline Sunwards Baby Spf50+ Face And Body Sun Cream
95/100
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sunscreen SPF 40 PA+++ Gloow&be
83/100
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Trego Sunscreen SPF 50++
75/100
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Di Morelli SPF 35 With Vitamin E
68/100
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Bioclarity Sunfilter
67/100
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Cien Cien Cellular Beauty Cream
67/100
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Farm Stay
Farmstay Hyaluronic Uv Shield Sun Block Cream SPF 50+ PA+++
64/100
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Avon Nutra Effects Matte Oil Control Day Cream SPF 20
64/100