Prohibited solvent
METHOXYDIGLYCOL
Safety score · 0–100
Caution
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
Diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, an industrial solvent classified as a reproductive toxin and prohibited from EU cosmetic products. Readily absorbed through skin and metabolised to toxic methoxyacetic acid.
Function
Skin benefits
- Effective solvent for resins, dyes and difficult-to-dissolve actives
- Coupling agent in mixed-solvent systems
Known concerns
- Diethylene glycol monomethyl ether (DEGME) is a known reproductive toxin
- EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II includes DEGME as prohibited substance in cosmetics
- Classified as Reproductive toxicity category 1B under EU CLP
- Readily absorbed through skin
- Metabolises to toxic methoxyacetic acid
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related prohibited solvents
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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.