Propylene glycol is an ingredient added to many everyday products that is starting to worry those who wish to better their health. Although not discouraged by the FDA, the use of propylene glycol may even cause adverse health affects such as dermatitis and eczema. Propylene glycol in form is colorless, clear, has a faint odor, and mixes well with acetone, chloroform, and water.
How is Propylene Glycol made?
Propylene glycol can be either made from propylene oxide or glycerol. Glycerol is a by-product of bio-diesel. Propylene oxide is an organic compound that is industrially used. It is used in the production of polyurethane plastics such as high performance adhesives and sealants, foam seats, foam insulation panels, spandex fibers, and hard plastics. Propylene oxide is yet produced from another source: propene or propylene. It is made by either hydro-clorination or oxidation. Propene, on the other hand, is a by-product of non-renewable fossil fuel processing. In essence, propylene glycol is a by-product of bio-diesel or non-renewable fossil fuels such as natural gas, coal, and petroleum.
What Products Contain Propylene Glycol?
Many consumer products contain propylene glycol. Propylene glycol is used as an additive in both pharmaceuticals (both vitamins and prescription medications). It is also used in alcohol beverages such as orange bitters as an emulsifier agent. Personal hygiene products also contain propylene glycol. These include toothpaste, mouthwash, deodorants, and various antibacterial products. Propylene glycol is also acts as antifreeze in drinking water systems and solar water heating systems. The reason why propylene glycol is used in these systems is because it is said to be less toxic than many other forms of antifreeze. Since propylene glycol has the ability to keep important drink water systems and solar water heating systems from freezing, it is also used at airports to clear the ice off of major airliners.
Is Propylene Glycol Harmful?
"The chances of your getting too much propylene glycol aren't high, but the risk is serious. Just like antifreeze can kill your pets, getting too much propylene glycol can cause seizures and fatal arrhythmias of the heart." (Trusted)
Propylene glycol is normally non-irritating to the skin if diluted. When used undiluted in a mist, propylene glycol was shown to cause slight conjunctivitis. It also caused irritation in the upper respiratory tract when inhaled. Since propylene glycol has been proven to be an irritant to eyes and the respiratory system, it is prohibited to be used in theatrical fog systems and at emergency eye wash stations. One other problem was found when used in a phenytoin shot given to two epileptic men. The propylene glycol caused both of the men enter into psychosis. Both of the men recovered after switching to a phenytoin shot without propylene glycol.
To some who are more prone to sensitivity to chemicals, propylene glycol may cause contact dermatitis or eczema. This also applies to women who are allergic to propylene glycol. For these women the use of propylene glycol is advised against in yeast infection creams because the cream may cause intense burning sensations.
Sources:
Chemindustry.ru, *"1, 2-propanediol: Chemical Product Info at Chemindustry.ru"* (May 4, 2010).
Trusted Health Products.com, *"Propylene Glycol"* (May 13, 2010).
Osha.gov, *"Propylene Oxide (Organic Method #88)"* (May 13, 2010).
Answers.com, *"Propylene: Definition from Answers.com"* (May 13, 2010).
Elisheva Weyers - My articles are written out of my genuine interest and not purely for monetary gain.
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