1,3 Butylene Glycol is a solvent and in general an alternative whenever Propylene Glycol or Glycerol are used with mostly superior properties both with regard to its technological properties as well as biological effects.

1,3 Butylene Glycol is a viscosity decreasing component. Like other humectants, it forms a barrier which prevents the drying out of cosmetics. Furthermore, it prevents the assimilation of water from atmospheres of high humidity into film-forming preparations. Butylene Glycol prevents crystallization of insoluble components in cosmetic vehicles. Moreover, it aids in solubilising aqueous insoluble ingredients. It has a solubilising effect on natural and synthetic flavouring substances. Among the most important characteristics of this ingredient are its ability to stabilise volatile compounds such as fragrances and flavours fixing them in cosmetic formulations and to retard the loss of aroma. Biological functions Butylene Glycol contributes to the preservation of cosmetics against spoilage by micro-organisms. Firstly, it has a very good distribution coefficient and thus leads to a better efficacy of preservatives mixed into formulation, thus making it possible to lower the dose of the applied preservative. Secondly, it has an antimicrobial effect itself. Compared with Glycerol, Sorbitol, and Propylene Glycol, 1,3 Butylene Glycol is the most efficient polyol as antimicrobial agent. It inhibits gram-positive and gram-negative microorganisms as well as molds and yeasts, but is not sporicidal. All polyols need a contact period of at least one week in order to exert their effect as preservatives. Butylene Glycol develops the best antimicrobial effect when e.g. added to an oil in water emulsion at a concentration of approximately 8 percent. In tests Butylene Glycol has been shown to have inhibiting effects on the growth of escherichia coli, sal. typhiosa and pseudomonas aeruginosa, whereas funghi will be inhibited only at concentrations of more than 17 percent.