Is Propylene Glycol really an industrial anti-freeze?
Propylene Glycol is a humectant and delivery agent used extensively in cosmetics and skin care products. There are websites and spam e-mails stating that propylene glycol is really industrial anti-freeze and the major ingredient in brake fluid and hydraulic fluids. They further state that the MSDS on this ingredient warns against skin contact. It is important to understand that MSDS sheets are referring to 100% concentrations of a substance (water and salt have frightening comments regarding their safety according to their MSDS). Propylene glycol is used in cosmetics only in the smallest amounts to keep products from melting in high heats or freezing in low temperatures. It also helps active ingredients penetrate the skin. In the minute amounts used in cosmetics and skin care, the ingredient is absolutley nothing that should arise even the smallest concern. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, within the Public Health Services Agency for Toxic Substances and D
