Dipropylene Glycol, DPG 200 g

Dipropylene Glycol - A Standard Solvent

Dipropylene Glycol (DPG) is one of the most popular and safe solvents for cosmetics, serving as a moisturizing component, active ingredient carrier, and formula stabilizer. Due to its high biocompatibility, dipropylene glycol is widely used in creams, serums, aroma diffusers, toners, and decorative cosmetics. It is valued for its neutrality, lack of odor, and ability to enhance the action of active ingredients.

Component Characteristics and Usage

INCI: Dipropylene Glycol (Oxydipropanol)

CAS No: 25265-71-8 (110-98-5)

Active Ingredient Content: 99.0%

Dosage in Cosmetics: 0.3 - 5%

Dosage in Aroma Diffusers and Perfumes: Up to 70%

Flash Point: 121°C

Storage: Store in a dry, dark place in a tightly sealed container.

Origin of DPG

Dipropylene glycol belongs to the class of chemically stable polyhydric alcohols (glycols) and is not a petroleum solvent in the common sense. It does not contain aromatic hydrocarbons or volatile toxic fractions and is non-reactive with skin.
 

Why dipropylene glycol is used in cosmetics

Dipropylene glycol is used in cosmetics as a functional component for dissolving and stabilizing active ingredients, ensuring their uniform distribution in the formula. It also improves texture and sensory properties, making cosmetics softer and more comfortable to apply.

• Controlled Moisture Retention

DPG molecules are highly hydrophilic and capable of binding water through hydrogen bonds. This reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) without creating occlusion.

• Carrier Function

DPG increases the solubility of both hydrophilic and moderately lipophilic active ingredients. At the cellular level, this results in a more uniform distribution of active ingredients in the stratum corneum without aggressively disrupting the lipid layers.

• Minimal Interaction with Cell Membranes

Studies show that dipropylene glycol does not denature proteins or extract structural lipids from the epidermis, unlike more aggressive solvents.
 

Efficacy and Safety Studies

IN VITRO

• Cytotoxicity tests (keratinocyte culture) showed no damage to cell membranes at concentrations used in cosmetics
• Skin permeation studies confirmed that DPG is not an aggressive penetrant, but rather gently improves the diffusion of active ingredients

IN VIVO

• Repeat skin patch tests (HRIPT) did not reveal any sensitizing potential
• Irritation assessment showed a low irritation index even with prolonged contact.
   

Use of dipropylene glycol as a solubilizer

DPG is not a classic solubilizer, but is widely used as a co-solubilizer and carrier, especially for:

• fragrance compositions
• essential oils
• lipophilic actives
• preservatives and UV filters

Typical proportions DPG: fragrance / essential oil = 3:1 - 5:1 (for clarity and stability in aqueous and hydroalcoholic solutions) (systems).

Dipropylene Glycol in Aroma Diffusers

Its purpose is to ensure stable, controlled evaporation of aromatic molecules without distorting the scent profile or sharp intensity peaks. What does dipropylene glycol affect:

• Speed ​​and uniformity of evaporation. DPG has low volatility compared to ethanol. This allows the fragrance to be released gradually and linearly, which is critical for reed diffusers and passive systems.
• Stability of the aromatic composition. It is chemically inert with respect to most aromatic substances and reduces the risk of composition separation and sedimentation.
• Accuracy of aroma transfer. Due to the absence of its own odor, dipropylene glycol does not distort the top, middle, and base notes, which is especially important for complex perfume formulas.
• Safety during long-term use. Dipropylene glycol is characterized by low inhalation and dermal toxicity in household diffusers.
   

Technological nuances of using dipropylene glycol in aroma diffusers

• The optimal concentration in reed diffusers is from 30 to 70%, depending on the desired intensity and type of aromatic oils.
• Dipropylene glycol's viscosity ensures stable capillary rise along rattan and synthetic reeds without a sudden release of aroma.
• DPG maintains physical stability with temperature fluctuations, reducing the risk of changes in evaporation rate in warm rooms.
• Compared to lighter solvents, DPG allows for more precise adjustment of the aromatherapy radius and the lifespan of the diffuser.