DIETHYLENE GLYCOL
DIETHYLENE GLYCOL
Diethylene glycol is a synthetic chemical compound used as a solvent, thickener, and fragrance ingredient in cosmetic formulations. It helps to dissolve other ingredients, increase viscosity, and facilitate the dispersion of fragrant components.
PerfumingViscosity controllingProhibited in the EU
Ingredient
Roles & functions
Perfuming — Adds a scent to the product or masks the odour of raw materials.
Viscosity controlling — Increases viscosity and gives the product its texture.
Solvent — Dissolves other ingredients to incorporate them into the formula.
Regulatory framework
What the authorities say
| Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| Commission européenne (CosIng, Règl. 1223/2009) | Interdit (Annexe II) — Diethylene glycol (DEG); 2,2'-oxydiethanol for traces level, see Annex III |
| CLP classification (Reg. 1272/2008) | No CMR classification |
| ECHA — endocrine disruptor (human health) | Not identified as an endocrine disruptor |
| ECHA — Candidate List (SVHC, REACH Art. 59) | Not on the Candidate List (SVHC) |
| European Commission (Reg. 1223/2009, Annex III) | No cosmetic allergen subject to mandatory labelling |
| European Commission (EU catalogue of nanomaterials, Reg. 1223/2009) | No referenced nanoform |
| European Commission — Annex II (Reg. 1223/2009) — maj Fri, 07 Aug 2026 16:37:22 GMT | Prohibited in cosmetics (Annex II) — Diethylene glycol (DEG); 2,2'-oxydiethanol for traces level, see Annex III — Annexe II, entrée 1370 |
| European Commission — Annex III (Reg. 1223/2009) — maj Fri, 07 Aug 2026 16:37:23 GMT | Permitted subject to restrictions (Annex III) — max 0.1 % in As traces in ingredients |
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This information is reported factually and with attribution (authorities and publications cited). It does not constitute medical advice, for your situation, ask a pharmacist or a healthcare professional for advice.
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