2,2'-oxydiethanol Diethylene glycol (DEG)
Other
Caution
CAS Number: 111-46-6
About 2,2'-oxydiethanol Diethylene glycol (DEG)
A toxic glycol compound with strict EU concentration limits (max 0.1%) due to historical poisoning incidents from ingestion.
Detailed Analysis
Diethylene glycol (DEG, CAS 111-46-6) is a toxic substance historically responsible for mass poisoning incidents from ingestion of contaminated products. Under EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009, DEG is restricted to a maximum of 0.1% as an impurity in cosmetic products. The restriction applies when DEG is present as a constituent of other substances or in mixtures. DEG is considered unsafe above this threshold due to acute toxicity concerns.
Skin Benefits
- ✓ Low concentrations may function as a humectant or solvent
Known Concerns
- ⚠ Severely restricted to ≤0.1% in cosmetic products
- ⚠ Acute oral toxicity (historically caused mass poisonings)
- ⚠ Prohibited as aerosol propellant
- ⚠ Nephrotoxic effects from systemic absorption
Safety Score
Caution
Based on EU regulatory data, published safety research, and ingredient function analysis.
References
EU CosIng Database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry
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