Ingredient
2,3-Butanediol
Butane-2,3-diol
What it is
A small fermentation-derived diol used as a lightweight humectant and solvent, often chosen as an alternative to butylene glycol for a less tacky finish.
How it works
Like other short-chain diols, it binds water at the skin surface and helps solubilize other ingredients, while also acting as a mild carrier solvent that improves how actives spread.
What it does
Humectant
Solvent
Skin conditioning
Concerns to know
-
Well tolerated
No significant safety concern is reported for this ingredient as used in cosmetics.