What skin types is 1,2-Hexanediol good for?

1,2-Hexanediol is suitable for all skin types.

What can you mix with 1,2-Hexanediol?

1,2-Hexanediol works well with Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Glycerin. These combinations are generally safe and can enhance results.

Is 1,2-Hexanediol safe to use every day?

1,2-Hexanediol can generally be used morning and evening. Recommended concentration: 0.5–2% in formulations.

1,2-Hexanediol

1,2-Hexanediol

Also known as: Hexylene Glycol (different compound) · Hexanediol

PreservativeHumectantSolvent

“A mild preservative and humectant widely used in K-beauty formulations.”

Skin types

All types

Pore-clogging

Non-comedogenic

Use when

AM & PM

Concentration

0.5–2%

What it does

1,2-Hexanediol is a diol used as a mild preservative booster and humectant. It is particularly popular in Korean skincare formulations as part of a "preservative system" alongside ethylhexylglycerin and caprylyl glycol — providing broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity without traditional preservatives. It also functions as a mild humectant.

Benefits

Mild preservative activity — inhibits bacteria and yeast
Lightweight humectant
Enables reduced use of traditional preservatives
Core of many K-beauty preservative systems

How to layer

☀️ Morning routine

Cleanser

Toner

Serum

Moisturiser

SPF

🌙 Evening routine

Cleanser

Toner

Serum

Moisturiser

Face Oil

After cleansing, on damp skin, before serums

Good for

All skin

Works well with

Ethylhexylglycerin ›Caprylyl Glycol ›Glycerin ›

Heads up

⚠At high concentrations may cause sensitisation in some individuals

How to use

A background preservative/humectant ingredient. No special application needed.

Typical concentration: 0.5–2% in formulations