What it is
A polar solvent most often paired with clay gellants such as disteardimonium hectorite, where it activates the clay to thicken oil and silicone phases into smooth, stable gels. It helps structure anhydrous and oil-rich sunscreens.
Safety & warnings
Used at low levels as a processing aid and generally regarded as well tolerated in finished products.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic cyclic carbonate.
Questions everyone asks
What does propylene carbonate do?
It activates clay thickeners to gel oil and silicone phases into smooth, stable textures.
Is it used in large amounts?
No, it is used in small amounts as a co-ingredient with clay gellants.