Formulating with 1,2 Hexanediol and Ethylhexylglycerin: Tips for Stability and Performance by Jayman Industries

Jayman Industries, is a cosmetic chemicals manufacturer based in India, offers globally compliant, high-purity specialty chemicals including 1,2 Hexanediol and Ethylhexylglycerin. This blog explores how to effectively formulate with these ingredients to enhance product stability, user experience, and regulatory compliance—while subtly showcasing how Jayman Industries supports formulators across global markets.

Understanding the Chemistry Behind the Ingredients

What is 1,2 Hexanediol?

1,2 Hexanediol is a diol compound with six carbon atoms and two hydroxyl groups, offering excellent humectant properties and broad-spectrum antimicrobial support.

• INCI Name: 1,2-Hexanediol

• Functions: Humectant, emollient, preservative booster

• Appearance: Colorless, odorless viscous liquid

• Usage range: 0.5–2% in most cosmetic applications

It’s one of the most commonly used specialty chemicals in the cosmetic industry today for water-based formulations.

What is Ethylhexylglycerin (EHG)?

Ethylhexylglycerin, often abbreviated as EHG, is a glyceryl ether derived from glycerin and a fatty alcohol. It is multifunctional—acting as a preservative enhancer, skin-conditioning agent, and deodorizing agent.

• INCI Name: Ethylhexylglycerin

• Functions: Preservative booster, antimicrobial stabilizer, deodorizer

• Appearance: Clear, slightly viscous liquid

• Usage range: 0.3–1%

When used in combination, 1,2 Hexanediol and Ethylhexylglycerin not only provide broad-spectrum antimicrobial effects but also improve the sensorial and functional profile of cosmetic formulations.

Why These Specialty Chemicals Are Key to Modern Formulation Design

Benefits of Using 1,2 Hexanediol and Ethylhexylglycerin

• Enhanced Preservation Without Harsh Chemicals

• Improved Moisturization and Sensory Feel

• Compatibility With Natural and Organic Formulations

• Regulatory Approval in Global Markets (EU, US, ASEAN)

• Reduced Need for Parabens or Formaldehyde Releasers
  

Tips for Effective Formulation

Formulating with 1,2 Hexanediol and Ethylhexylglycerin requires attention to detail. Here are key tips to ensure optimal results.

1. Use Within Optimal Concentration Ranges

• 1,2 Hexanediol: 0.5% – 1.5%

• Ethylhexylglycerin: 0.3% – 1%

• Combination of the two enhances preservative efficacy while maintaining mildness

⚠️ Note: Overuse can lead to tackiness or slight skin irritation in sensitive formulas. Always perform compatibility and sensory testing.

2. Maintain Ideal pH Range

• Both ingredients are stable across a wide pH range (3.5 to 8.0), making them highly versatile.

• Avoid pH extremes to ensure optimal preservation and skin compatibility.
  

3. Consider the Formulation Type

These specialty chemicals are especially effective in:

• Water-based formulations (gels, toners, lotions)

• Emulsions (creams, moisturizers)

• Surfactant systems (cleansers, body washes)

• Leave-on products (serums, deodorants)

They are also suitable for alcohol-free formulations, making them ideal for sensitive skin or "clean beauty" applications.

4. Combine With Other Preservatives for Synergy

While both 1,2 Hexanediol and Ethylhexylglycerin offer some antimicrobial properties, they are best used in synergistic preservative systems.

Recommended Combinations:

• Phenoxyethanol + Ethylhexylglycerin

• Potassium sorbate + 1,2 Hexanediol

• Sodium benzoate + Ethylhexylglycerin

This approach minimizes the need for harsher preservatives while maintaining efficacy.

5. Add During Cool Down Phase

To preserve their stability and prevent degradation, both ingredients should be added below 40°C—ideally in the cool-down phase post-emulsification.

Applications in Cosmetic Industry

These cosmetic intermediates are used across multiple product categories, offering flexibility and performance:

🧴 Facial Serums and Creams

• Provide moisture retention

• Support microbial safety without strong preservatives

• Improve skin feel and spreadability
  

💦 Cleansers and Micellar Waters

• Boost antimicrobial efficacy in surfactant-heavy systems

• Non-stripping and ideal for daily use
  

🌿 Natural Deodorants

• Deodorizing action of Ethylhexylglycerin

• Broad-spectrum microbial resistance
  

🧼 Baby and Sensitive Skin Products

• Mild, non-irritating options compared to traditional preservatives

• Perfect for hypoallergenic formulations

Global Compliance and Formulation Safety

Both 1,2 Hexanediol and Ethylhexylglycerin are:

• Approved for cosmetic use in the EU, US, Japan, and ASEAN

• Safe for leave-on and rinse-off formulations

• Biodegradable and eco-friendly, aligning with the green beauty movement
  

Why Source From Jayman Industries?

As a globally recognized cosmetic chemicals manufacturer, Jayman Industries is committed to delivering specialty chemicals that meet the highest quality, safety, and performance benchmarks.

✅ What Sets Jayman Industries Apart:

• In-House R&D & Customization Support

• Technical Documentation & MSDS Support

• Reliable Lead Times and International Shipping
  

Whether you’re a global personal care brand, contract manufacturer, or startup formulator, sourcing your cosmetic intermediates from Jayman Industries ensures product consistency and supply chain confidence.

Real-World Use Cases: Sample Formulations

1. Hydrating Facial Gel

• Water: 80%

• Hyaluronic Acid: 1%

• 1,2 Hexanediol: 1%

• Ethylhexylglycerin: 0.5%

• Preservative: Phenoxyethanol 0.5%
  

2. Micellar Cleansing Water

• Aqua: 85%

• Glycerin: 3%

• Mild Surfactant: 6%

• 1,2 Hexanediol: 0.8%

• EHG: 0.5%
  

3. Baby Lotion

• Emollients: 10%

• Emulsifier: 2%

• 1,2 Hexanediol: 0.5%

• Ethylhexylglycerin: 0.3%

• Fragrance-Free, Hypoallergenic
  

Emerging Trends in Specialty Cosmetic Formulation

As the global cosmetic industry shifts toward cleaner, sustainable, and science-backed formulations, specialty chemicals like 1,2 Hexanediol and Ethylhexylglycerin will play an even greater role.

✳️ Key Trends to Watch:

• "Preservative-Free" Claims: Achieved through multifunctional ingredients

• Eco-conscious Formulations: Biodegradable and low-irritant chemicals

• Personalized Skincare: Demand for adaptable, high-performance bases

• Microbiome-Friendly Preservatives: Mild alternatives to traditional systems

Positioning India as a Global Hub for Cosmetic Chemicals

India is fast becoming a preferred sourcing destination for manufacturers of cosmetic chemicals, offering:

• Competitive Pricing

• High Production Standards

• Export Infrastructure

• Technical Expertise

Jayman Industries is at the forefront of this movement—delivering high-quality specialty chemicals 

Partner with Jayman Industries for Formulation Success

Formulating with 1,2 Hexanediol and Ethylhexylglycerin provides formulators with powerful tools to achieve stability, safety, and superior skin performance without compromising on consumer or regulatory expectations.

As a reliable cosmetic chemicals manufacturer, Jayman Industries offers these specialty chemicals with global consistency, technical support, and scalable supply all backed by decades of experience.

Whether you're formulating next-generation skincare or launching a clean-label product line, partnering with Jayman Industries ensures you have access to high-quality, compliant cosmetic intermediates helping you create products that truly stand out in a competitive marketplace.