What Is Ethyl Glycerin Acetal Levulinate?
Ethyl Glycerin Acetal Levulinate is a lab crafted compound derived from levulinic acid, a naturally occurring organic acid that can be obtained from corn stalks, sugar beet pulp or other plant biomass. Chemists react levulinic acid with propylene glycol to form an intermediate called Ethyl Levulinate PG Acetal, then finish the process with an esterification step that adds an ethyl group. The result is a clear, low-odor liquid officially labeled 1,3-dioxolane-2-propanoic acid, (4-hydroxymethyl)-2-methyl, ethyl ester. It first gained attention in the early 2000s when formulators looked for greener alternatives to petroleum-based solvents, and it has since become a quiet staple in modern clean beauty lines.
Because of its gentle solvent power and mild scent, Ethyl Glycerin Acetal Levulinate shows up in a wide variety of leave-on and rinse-off items. You will most often spot it in facial serums, sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers, anti-aging creams, makeup removers, micellar waters and hair styling sprays where it helps dissolve and stabilize active ingredients without adding heaviness or greasiness.
Ethyl Glycerin Acetal Levulinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In cosmetic formulas this ingredient serves a single key purpose that still makes a noticeable difference in product performance.
As a solvent it helps dissolve oils, botanical extracts and performance actives, creating a uniform mixture so each application delivers consistent results. This improves the texture, clarity and spreadability of a product, allowing lightweight lotions and serums to feel smooth and absorb evenly on skin or hair.
Who Can Use Ethyl Glycerin Acetal Levulinate
This solvent is considered gentle enough for most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Sensitive skin users generally tolerate it well because it has low odor and is not highly reactive, though anyone with a known sensitivity to levulinic acid derivatives should stay cautious.
The compound is made from plant sourced levulinic acid and propylene glycol then finished with a simple ethyl ester step, so it contains no animal by-products. That makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
No data suggest the ingredient interferes with pregnancy or breastfeeding when used on the skin in normal cosmetic amounts. That said this is not medical advice. Pregnant or nursing individuals should review any skincare routine with their healthcare provider to be safe.
Ethyl Glycerin Acetal Levulinate does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also has no known impact on hair color or texture and is fragrance free, which can be helpful for people avoiding added scents.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Ethyl Glycerin Acetal Levulinate can vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions, but most users will never notice any of these if the product has been formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin redness or warmth in very sensitive individuals after application
- Transient stinging if applied to open cuts or freshly exfoliated skin
- Contact dermatitis in people allergic to levulinic acid derivatives or propylene glycol
- Eye irritation if the liquid accidentally gets into the eyes
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Ethyl Glycerin Acetal Levulinate is a lightweight solvent that evaporates or rinses away without leaving an oily or occlusive film. It has a low molecular weight and does not clog pores, which is why it earns the lowest possible comedogenic score. This makes it suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Because the ingredient is typically used at modest concentrations and lacks heavy fatty acids, it is unlikely to build up on the skin even when layered with other products.
Summary
Ethyl Glycerin Acetal Levulinate’s chief role in cosmetics is as a gentle plant-derived solvent that dissolves oils, botanical extracts and active ingredients so formulas stay clear, smooth and easy to spread. By keeping everything evenly dispersed it helps serums, lotions and sprays feel lighter and absorb more quickly.
While not a household name, it has carved out a steady niche in clean beauty and eco-minded lines where formulators want a mild alternative to petroleum solvents. Its safety profile is strong with low irritation and zero comedogenicity for most users.
Overall this ingredient is considered safe for routine use, but as with any new skincare product it is wise to do a small patch test first to confirm personal tolerance.