Propylene carbonate is a clear, colorless solvent used in cosmetics to dissolve other ingredients and control viscosity, often functioning as a gelling and dispersing agent for pigments and clays. It is considered a formulation aid rather than an active skincare ingredient.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Mild skin irritation | Uncommon | Possible at higher concentrations, generally well tolerated in finished products. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Isolated sensitization reports; not a common allergen. |
Eye irritation | Uncommon | Can cause transient irritation on direct ocular contact. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.