TRIETHYLENE GLYCOL
Triethylene glycol, listed on labels as TRIETHYLENE GLYCOL, is a synthetic member of the ethylene glycol family. It is a colorless liquid with a very mild odour and an affinity for water; its structure contains three ethylene glycol units joined through oxygen atoms, which is why its name begins with "tri."
TRIETHYLENE GLYCOL: what it is
Triethylene glycol, listed on labels as TRIETHYLENE GLYCOL, is a synthetic member of the ethylene glycol family. It is a colorless liquid with a very mild odour and an affinity for water; its structure contains three ethylene glycol units joined through oxygen atoms, which is why its name begins with "tri."
It is manufactured from ethylene oxide and ethylene glycol. That distinguishes it from plant-derived ingredients and extracts: it does not come from a plant part, and the name refers to a defined chemical substance rather than a botanical raw-material blend.
TRIETHYLENE GLYCOL: what it does in cosmetics
In cosmetics, triethylene glycol may be part of the perfumed composition. In everyday terms, this relates to the scent noticed while using the product, not to a treatment effect on skin or hair.
It may also be used to control viscosity, meaning the thickness or flow of a product as it leaves the package and spreads. Those roles describe formula behaviour and sensory use; they do not demonstrate that triethylene glycol on its own hydrates or treats acne, dark spots, wrinkles, or another skin condition.
Products containing this ingredient
See which products include it and the name used in each composition.
