Solvent
2,2'-oxydiethanol Diethylene glycol (DEG)
Safety score · 0–100
Avoid
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
Diethylene glycol (CAS 111-46-6) — a notorious toxic glycol responsible for multiple mass-poisoning incidents when it has contaminated medicines. Strict EU limit of 0.1% as an impurity in oral-care products only; not for direct cosmetic use.
Skin benefits
- Functions as a humectant and solvent in industrial use
- No legitimate cosmetic-essential function — substitutes exist
- Cheap and widely available
Known concerns
- Lethal poisoning when contaminating consumed products (Massengill, Panama, Haiti incidents)
- EU restricts as impurity max 0.1% in toothpaste/oral care
- Metabolised to nephrotoxic and CNS-toxic intermediates
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related solvents
Check your shelf
Find 2,2'-oxydiethanol Diethylene glycol (DEG) in your products.
Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains 2,2'-oxydiethanol Diethylene glycol (DEG) and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.
This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.