Ethylhexylglycerin

Ethylhexylglycerin is a topical skin care ingredient and deodorizing agent, often indicated as a conditioning ointment in the treatment of eczema. It can also be a surfactant and preservative-enhancer and can be found as a substituent for parabens. Ethylhexylglycerin is commonly found in baby products or cosmetics marketed as “hypoallergenic” or “formaldehyde free.”

Skin contact with ethylhexylglycerin is required for it to cause a rash. Discontinuation of exposure to products containing ethylhexylglycerin should result in improvement and/or resolution of your dermatitis. By law, all products made in the U.S. for topical use have the ingredients listed whether on the product package or the box that contains it, so check the labeling of your skin care products for this ingredient. If there is no information ask you pharmacist or call the company directly. At work, request a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to help identify potential sources of exposure.