The Index · Solvent
Butoxyethanol
Butoxyethanol
Butoxyethanol is a glycol ether solvent used in some hair-colouring and other cosmetic formulas.
FunctionalFunctional ingredient, not graded for skin benefits
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Butoxyethanol is a glycol ether solvent used in some hair-colouring and other cosmetic formulas.
What it does
Solvent and coupling agent; CIR amended review has flagged concentration data gaps rather than a finished clearance.
The evidence
Functional ingredient (not graded for skin benefits): CIR Final Amended Report (June 2026) concluded insufficient data pending maximum use concentrations. Credible chemical identity and cosmetic-use context come from CIR/SCCS/manufacturer INCI definitions and databases such as SpecialChem/PubChem[1].
How to use it
Expect this as a supporting INCI line item unless labelled as a featured active.
What it does in the formula
Functional ingredient — not graded for skin benefits
Butoxyethanol is a glycol ether solvent used in some hair-colouring and other cosmetic formulas.[1]
Safety & limits
Source and region, always
all — Used in cosmetics within conventional leave-on/rinse-off levels; see cited safety literature.[1] CA US EU UK
Sources · 1
Numbered as cited in the text
- [1]CIR/SCCS. CIR FAR Butoxyethanol 062026. Regulator (2026)regulator
Revision history
18 Sept 2026Drafted by botTheSkindex Desk