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1,2-Hexanediol
HDPE Drums

ELHUME – HDO12

1,2-Hexanediol

ELHUMETM – HDO12

A glycol used as a humectant, solvent, and preservative in cosmetics, providing moisture and skin protection.

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CAS Number

6920-22-5

HS Code

29.05.39.00

Molecular Formula

C₅H₁₄O₂

INCI Name

1,2-Hexanediol

Home/Products/1,2-Hexanediol

1,2-Hexanediol

ELHUMETM – HDO12

A glycol used as a humectant, solvent, and preservative in cosmetics, providing moisture and skin protection.

CAS Number

6920-22-5

INCI Name

1,2-Hexanediol

HS Code

29.05.39.00

Molecular Formula

C₅H₁₄O₂

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Need pricing? Request a quote for this product and we'll get back to you shortly.

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1,2-Hexanediol
HDPE Drums

ELHUME – HDO12

Product Specification

AppearanceLight yellow liquid
Molecular Weight (G/Mol)118.17

Physical Properties

PropertySpecification
AppearanceLight yellow liquid
Molecular Weight (G/Mol)118.17

Chemical Properties

PropertySpecification
Pka14.49 ± 0.20 (predicted)
Water SolubilityMiscible with water
IncompatibilitiesGenerally stable, but as a glycol, may react with strong oxidizers

Thermal Properties

PropertySpecification
Flash Point>230 °F
Boiling Point223-224 °C (lit.)
Melting Point45°C
Thermal StabilityStable under normal conditions

Processing Methods & Reference Formulations

A. Cosmetic cream

Add 1,2-Hexanediol during the cool-down phase to preserve its efficacy as a preservative booster and humectant. It is water-soluble and should be mixed thoroughly to ensure uniform distribution in the cream.

Key IngredientsIndicative Dosage (% w/w)
Emollients5–20%
Emulsifiers2-6%
Humectants (e.g., glycerin)2-8%
1,2-Hexanediol0.5–5%
1,2-Pentanediol0.5–5%
1,2-Octanediol0.5–2%
Sorbic Acid0.05–0.2%
Water40-50%

B. Hair shampoo

Add 1,2-Hexanediol during the cool-down phase to maintain its preservative-boosting and moisturizing properties. Ensure thorough mixing for even dispersion in the shampoo base.

Key IngredientsIndicative Dosage (% w/w)
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)12%
Cocamidopropyl Betaine5%
Glycerin3%
1,2-Hexanediol1%
Polyquaternium-70.5%
Citric Acid0.2%
Sodium Chloride0.3%
Phenoxyethanol0.8%
Disodium EDTA0.3%
Deionized Water70-80%

C. Facial cleansers

When adding 1,2-Hexanediol to a facial cleanser, incorporate it into the cool-down phase to preserve its antimicrobial efficacy and prevent degradation. Compatible with most surfactants and active ingredients, it helps improve skin feel without affecting foam. Ensure final pH is 4.5–7 for optimal performance.

Key IngredientsIndicative Dosage (% w/w)
Deionized Water60%
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate12%
Coco-Glucoside8%
Glycerin4%
1,2-Hexanediol1%
Cocamidopropyl Betaine5%
Sodium Chloride1%
Citric Acid0.2%
Phenoxyethanol0.8%
Disodium EDTA0.3%
Fragrance0.5%

D. Sunscreen cream

When adding 1,2-Hexanediol to sunscreen cream, incorporate it during the cooling phase to preserve stability and avoid volatility. Ensure the final pH is 4.5–7 to support both efficacy and formulation stability.

Key IngredientsIndicative Dosage (% w/w)
Potassium Cetyl Phosphate2%
C12-15 alkyl benzoate6%
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glyceryl Oleate Citrate6%
Octocrylene10%
Homosalate8%
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane5%
4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor4%
Simmondsia Chinensis seed oil5%
Glyceryl Stearate3%
Apalight SP5%
Aqua44.8%
Tetrasodium glutamate diacetate0.1%
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate and Sodium Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate Copolymer0.5%
1-2 Hexanediol0.5%

Dosing Guidelines

A. Dosing by Application

ProductsAuthorized dosage %
Skin Care0.5–5%
Hair shampoo0.5–5%
Other Personal Care0.5–5%

About 1,2-Hexanediol

Catalytic hydrogenation of 2-hydroxyhexanoic acid or its esters, followed by hydrolysis and purification.Yield recovery is usually around 85-95%.

Catalytic hydrogenation of 2-hydroxyhexanoic acid or its esters, followed by hydrolysis and purification.Yield recovery is usually around 85-95%. Raw Material - 2-Hydroxyhexanoic acid, Hydrogen gas, Catalyst(e.g, Raney Nickel) Overall Formula: C₆H₁₂O₃ (2-Hydroxyhexanoic acid) + 2H2 --> C₆H₁₄O₂ (1,2-Hexanediol) +H2O

About 1,2-Hexanediol

Catalytic hydrogenation of 2-hydroxyhexanoic acid or its esters, followed by hydrolysis and purification.Yield recovery is usually around 85-95%.

Catalytic hydrogenation of 2-hydroxyhexanoic acid or its esters, followed by hydrolysis and purification.Yield recovery is usually around 85-95%. Raw Material - 2-Hydroxyhexanoic acid, Hydrogen gas, Catalyst(e.g, Raney Nickel) Overall Formula: C₆H₁₂O₃ (2-Hydroxyhexanoic acid) + 2H2 --> C₆H₁₄O₂ (1,2-Hexanediol) +H2O

Regulatory Compliance

RegionMax Allowed LevelNotesCertification Body
United States-No explicit statutory maximum. CIR and FDA consider 1,2-hexanediol safe as used in cosmetics.FDA
European Union-Not specifically restricted; permitted under general safety provisions of EU Cosmetics Regulation.SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety)
India-No BIS-specific limit.-
Japan-No specific limit, permitted if safe.-
ASEAN-No explicit max for cosmetics.-
Australia-No statutory maximum-
China-No statutory maximumNMPA - National Medical Products Administration
Korea, Republic of-No statutory maximumMFDS - Ministry of Food and Drug Safety

FAQs - 1,2-Hexanediol

Can 1,2-Hexanediol be used in cosmetics?
Yes, it is commonly used in moisturizers and hair care products.
What is the shelf life of 1,2-Hexanediol?
3 years.
How is 1,2-Hexanediol packaged for export?
Drums or IBC tanks.
Is 1,2-Hexanediol compliant with international regulations?
Yes, it meets global safety standards.
What is the boiling point of 1,2-Hexanediol?
244°C.

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