2,3-BUTANEDIOL

Humectant

90

Excellent

CAS Number: 513-85-9; 5341-95-7; 24347-58-8

About 2,3-BUTANEDIOL

A naturally occurring diol found in some foods and used as a humectant, fragrance ingredient, and solvent in cosmetic formulations.

Detailed Analysis

2,3-Butanediol (CAS 513-85-9 and related stereoisomers) is a short-chain aliphatic diol that occurs naturally in some fermented foods and has a mild, slightly sweet odour. It is used in cosmetics as a humectant, fragrance ingredient, solvent, and skin conditioning agent. It is not listed in any annex of EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Available toxicology data indicate very low acute oral and dermal toxicity, no genotoxicity, and no evidence of skin sensitisation. It is considered safe for use in cosmetic products at current exposure levels. The ingredient has been assessed by the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) and found acceptable.

What It Does

HUMECTANT FRAGRANCE SKIN CONDITIONING SOLVENT

Skin Benefits

  • ✓ Humectant activity helps retain skin moisture
  • ✓ Solvent properties improve formulation stability and ingredient solubilisation
  • ✓ Conditions and softens skin

Known Concerns

  • ⚠ May contribute a mild sweet fragrance note — relevant for fragrance-allergic individuals
  • ⚠ May enhance skin penetration of other ingredients due to solvent activity

Safety Score

90

Excellent

Based on EU regulatory data, published safety research, and ingredient function analysis.

References

🏛

EU CosIng Database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry

Check your products for 2,3-BUTANEDIOL

Scan any cosmetic product to see if it contains this ingredient and get a full safety breakdown.

Download LuxSense

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for skin concerns or allergies.