Triethylene Glycol

Triethylene Glycol molecular structurePubChem

adults • Skin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Is this safe for adults to use Triethylene Glycol?

✅
YES - Generally Safe
Danger Score: 2 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Triethylene Glycol is generally considered safe for adults when used in topical products. Adults generally have higher tolerance.

ℹ️General Overview

For adults, triethylene glycol is usually low risk when used in normal skincare products. It works as a solvent or to help skin hold moisture. Most safety concerns are small, but experts ask for limits on how it’s used.

✅What to Do

Use products that list this ingredient only if they are from trusted brands that follow safety limits. Do not put products that contain triethylene glycol on cuts, scrapes, or very irritated skin. If you have sensitive skin, try a small test area first. If pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your health care provider or choose products without this ingredient if you prefer extra caution.

⚠️Warnings

Do not use on injured or damaged skin (warning comes from Cosmetic Ingredient Review guidance). There are noted gaps in safety data and recommended limits on use and concentration (Cosmetic Ingredient Review). A government review noted potential for non-reproductive organ effects at concerning levels, so avoid prolonged high exposure and prefer products that state safe use practices (Environment Canada). Stop use and see a doctor if you get redness, burning, or other signs of irritation.

Confidence: MEDIUM

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Banned: Industry safety reviewers have placed limits on this ingredient. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) says its use is restricted in some products and it should not be used on injured or damaged skin. Some product-verification programs also require strong proof before allowing it.
Organ Risk: Environment Canada classifies triethylene glycol as “expected to be toxic or harmful” and gives it a medium human-health priority. That means repeated or improper use could harm organs like the liver, kidneys, or lungs.
Irritant: The CIR specifically warns it is not safe for use on injured or damaged skin. That guidance means it can irritate sensitive or broken skin and could cause redness or worsening of skin problems.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Triethylene Glycol

This ingredient may also be listed as:

triethylene glycol7813-EP2308858A17813-EP2272849A17813-EP2284165A1POLYETHYLENE OXIDE, M.W. >5,000,0007813-EP2292597A1ETHANOL,2'-[1,2-ETHANEDIYLBIS(OXY)]BIS-POLY(OXY-1,2-ETHANEDIYL),??-HYDRO-??-HYDROXY- ETHANE-1,2-DIOL, ETHOXYLATED 1 - 4.5 MOLES ETHOXYLATEDTRIETHYLENE GLYCOL, REAGENTPLUS(R), 99%FT-0652416FT-0659862

Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.

Common Questions About Triethylene Glycol

Is this safe for adults to use Triethylene Glycol?

Yes, Triethylene Glycol is generally considered safe for adults based on current research.

What are the banned risks of Triethylene Glycol for adults?

Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries.

What are the organ risk risks of Triethylene Glycol for adults?

May harm organs like liver, kidneys, or lungs with repeated use.

What are the irritant risks of Triethylene Glycol for adults?

Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashes—especially on sensitive baby skin.

What products contain Triethylene Glycol?

Triethylene Glycol is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.

When can adults using products with Triethylene Glycol?

The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for adults. Use the age selector above to check other ages.

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