What Is Propanediol and Why Do We Use It in Haircare?

If you’ve ever glanced at the ingredient list on your BodFood shampoo or conditioner, you might’ve spotted propanediol and wondered what it’s doing there.

It doesn’t sound particularly botanical or glamorous, but here’s the truth: it’s one of those quiet overachievers that helps your product feel better, work better, and be better for your skin and the planet.

Let’s take a look at what it is, where it comes from, and why it’s part of our low-tox toolkit.

What is Propanediol?

Propanediol is a plant-derived humectant and solvent.
Ours is made from renewable corn sugar, which is fermented to produce a clean, safe, and skin-friendly ingredient.

It’s often used as a gentle alternative to propylene glycol, which can cause sensitivity in some people. Propanediol does a similar job without the sting.

Why Do We Use It?

Think of propanediol as the quiet support act in your formula. It might not be the star, but without it, the product wouldn’t perform quite the same.

Here’s what it does:

• Helps draw moisture into the hair shaft (thanks to its humectant properties)
  
  
• Improves spreadability and glide, making your shampoo or conditioner easier to apply
  
  
• Supports ingredient solubility, so actives and extracts mix beautifully
  
  
• Adds a light conditioning feel, without greasiness or build-up
  
  
• Keeps formulas stable, especially those without harsh preservatives
  
  

Is It Safe?

Yes. Propanediol is considered safe, non-toxic, and non-irritating. It’s approved for use by:

• The EU CosIng database
  
  
• The US Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)
  
  
• Australian regulatory bodies for cosmetic safety
  
  

It’s also readily biodegradable, making it a better option for the planet too.

Why BodFood Chooses It

At BodFood, our products are formulated with both performance and people in mind.
We use propanediol in our shampoos and conditioners to:

• Boost moisture without heaviness
  
  
• Stabilise our natural actives
  
  
• Replace petrochemical-derived solvents in a clean, effective way
  
  

It’s not just what we leave out of our formulas it’s what we choose to include that makes them shine.

Propanediol might not be a household name, but it’s one of those next-gen ingredients that proves clean beauty doesn’t have to sacrifice performance.

It’s a safe, effective, plant-based all-rounder, and we’re proud to include it in our low-tox lineup.