Propylene Glycol is a naturally occurring organic, botanical-based ingredient and is considered to be one of the safest moisture-carrying vehicles (ingredients) other than water itself. The propylene glycol Holistic uses is USP grade, Kosher Certified and is approved as a food additive. It has been safely used in skin care and cosmetic products as a humectant and wetting agent for over 50 years without any problems. It is used in higher concentrations in anti-freeze simply because it prevents water from freezing without exposing the user to dangerous chemicals. It also helps to protect the skin from freezing when exposed to sub-zero temperatures, thereby helping to prevent cellular damage. That is obviously a good thing.

The test that is irresponsibly being used to support the irritation warning is based on the result of testing a 100% solution of propylene glycol applied to the skin. This same irresponsible test-result reasoning can also be used to support a much more serious warning against using water in the manufacture of skin care products. After all, exposure to too much water can kill humans; it is clinically referred to as suffocation (oxygen depravation) through drowning.

Holistic uses less than 1% propylene glycol in approximately 10% of its products. A 1% propylene glycol formulation has a proven history of delivering an absolute zero irritation probability.

Yours truly,

Terry Filion