INCI Name
2,3-BUTANEDIOL
Functions
3 Roles
Sustainability
7/10
Category
humectants
What It Does
2,3-Butanediol is a small, water-miscible diol (four-carbon glycol) that can be produced through bio-fermentation of renewable sugar feedstocks, distinguishing it from conventional petroleum-derived glycols. It functions as an effective humectant and skin-conditioning agent, drawing moisture to the skin while imparting a lighter, less sticky skin feel compared to glycerin or propylene glycol. Formulators value it for its dual role as a solvent—helping to dissolve and stabilize active ingredients—and for its ability to enhance the sensory profile of formulations, particularly in serums, essences, and lightweight moisturizers.
Technical Properties
Ionic Charge
nonionic
Molecular charge type
Viscosity Effect
thinning
Impact on formula thickness
Foaming Ability
none
Lather generation
Molecular Profile
Molecular Weight
90.12
g/mol
LogP
-0.90
Partition coefficient (lipophilicity)
H-Bond Donors
2
Hydrogen bond donor count
H-Bond Acceptors
2
Hydrogen bond acceptor count
Polar Surface Area
40.5
Angstroms squared
Ingredient Compatibility
Works Well With
Avoid Combining
Sustainability Profile
Sustainability Score
Biodegradability
readily biodegradable
Source
fermentation
Feedstock
Can be produced via microbial fermentation of sugars (e.g., from corn or sugarcane) using bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae or Bacillus subtilis, making it a bio-based alternative to petroleum-derived glycols
Related Ingredients
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Quick Reference
- Full INCI Name
- 2,3-BUTANEDIOL
- Common Name
- 2,3-Butanediol
- Category
- humectants