DIETHYLENE GLYCOL
Commonly Found In
Overview
DIETHYLENE GLYCOL is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for FRAGRANCE. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: DEG, Diglycol, 2,2'-Oxydiethanol, Bis(2-hydroxyethyl) ether
Key Benefits
Diethylene glycol has no beneficial skin effects. It is a toxic solvent banned in EU cosmetics. It should not be confused with safer cosmetic ingredients like propylene glycol, butylene glycol, or polyethylene glycols.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; not used as a topical cosmetic ingredient; restricted/banned due to systemic toxicity.
Source: EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II
Irritancy Rating
Moderate systemic toxicity risk; diethylene glycol causes acute kidney and liver injury upon ingestion. As a surface contaminant in products (substituted for propylene glycol), has caused fatal poisonings. Banned in EU cosmetics. FDA has issued import alerts. Not a topical irritant per se but a serious systemic hazard.
Source: EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II; FDA import alert 53-01; WHO safety assessment
Typical Use Concentration
Range
N/A (banned)
Optimal
N/A
Banned ingredient; no acceptable cosmetic concentration.
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Restricted | - | Follows EU regulations (II/1370 III/186) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU bans diethylene glycol in cosmetics (Annex II/1370) due to its systemic toxicity when absorbed. The US and Japan do not have explicit cosmetic bans but general safety requirements would preclude intentional use. DEG has been found as an adulterant in products in multiple countries.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 122 ingredients in the FRAGRANCE category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Not found in nature. A synthetic organic compound that is a byproduct of ethylene glycol production.
π How It's Made
Produced as a byproduct during the manufacture of ethylene glycol from ethylene oxide and water. It forms when ethylene glycol reacts with additional ethylene oxide.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for fragrance, perfuming, solvent, viscosity controlling.
π¬ Other Applications
Used in antifreeze, brake fluids, as a solvent in printing inks, and in the production of polyester resins and plasticizers. Also used as a humectant in tobacco products.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Diethylene glycol has caused some of the worst mass poisoning events in history β it was used as a cheap substitute for glycerin in medicines, killing hundreds
- β’ The 1937 'Elixir Sulfanilamide disaster' in the US (107 deaths from DEG-contaminated medicine) directly led to the creation of the FDA's drug approval process
- β’ Contaminated toothpaste containing DEG was found in products across multiple countries in 2007, leading to worldwide recalls
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β Annex II/1370, III/186
- β’ FDA import alerts on DEG-contaminated products
- β’ WHO safety assessment of diethylene glycol
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
BENZYL ALCOHOL
DIBUTYL PHTHALATE
DIETHYLHEXYL PHTHALATE
CEDRUS ATLANTICA BARK OIL
CITRUS LIMON PEEL OIL
CITRUS PARADISI PEEL OIL
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is DIETHYLENE GLYCOL banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning DIETHYLENE GLYCOL under II/1370 III/186 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is DIETHYLENE GLYCOL banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits DIETHYLENE GLYCOL (II/1370 III/186) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is DIETHYLENE GLYCOL used for in cosmetics?
DIETHYLENE GLYCOL is primarily used for fragrance in cosmetic products. It also serves as perfuming, solvent. The ingredient is commonly found in perfumes, colognes, and scented cosmetics.
Which countries regulate DIETHYLENE GLYCOL?
DIETHYLENE GLYCOL is banned in EU. It has concentration limits or usage restrictions in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to DIETHYLENE GLYCOL?
Due to regulatory restrictions on DIETHYLENE GLYCOL, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For fragrance, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.