Triacetin

Good

Solvent

No known benefits

Triacetin at a glance

  • Triglyceride is used in cosmetics as a solvent to help form solutions
  • Can also serve as a cosmetic preservative
  • Improves texture as a plasticizer
  • Characterized as a colorless and odorless liquid

Triacetin description

Triacetin is a triglyceride, a type of lipid formed from glycerol and three fatty acids. It’s used in cosmetics as a solvent, preservative and texture enhancer. Triacetin works to help dissolve and dilute substances, creating a consistent formulation. Beyond this, it assists in extending a product’s shelf life as a preservative, preventing the growth of unwanted substances within a product. As a raw material, it appears as a colorless, viscous liquid. It also has applications in the food industry. This particular triglyceride is a triester of glycerol, also known as glycerin, a powerful humectant. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed triacetin safe for use in cosmetic formulations. It’s commonly used in concentrations between 0.8% and 4.0%.

Triacetin references

  • PubChem, Accessed October 2022, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2003, pages S1-S10

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.