Propylene Glycol
- Pharmaceutical use: Acts as a solvent and carrier in many oral, injectable, and topical drugs. It enhances the solubility of active ingredients in formulations like cough syrups, ointments, and IV medications.
- Cosmetics and personal care: Used as a humectant (moisture-retaining agent) in skin creams, shampoos, deodorants, and lotions.
- Food industry: Approved as a food additive (E1520), it is used in processed foods, flavorings, and as a stabilizer in dairy products.
- Industrial applications: Found in antifreeze, lubricants, and hydraulic fluids due to its low freezing point and non-toxic nature. It is also used in electronic cigarettes as a base liquid for vaping.