1,3-Butylene glycol is a colorless, viscous, organic compound with a sweet flavor and bitter aftertaste. It is used in many industries, including:
- Cosmetics: A common humectant and emollient in skin care and hair care products, such as face masks
- Food and beverage: An additive with antimicrobial properties, and used in food and beverage packaging
- Plastics: An intermediate in the production of polyester plasticizers, unsaturated polyester resins, and polyurethane paints
- Pharmaceuticals: A stabilizer
- Inks: A wetting agent
- Solvent: Used in the fragrance industry, and as a solvent for ingredients in other products