Propylene Glycol: A Novel Tissue-Regenerative Compound and Potent Topical Microbicide

Propylene Glycol (PG) or 1,2-propanediol, is a colorless, almost odorless, faintly sweet, non-volatile (b.p. at 188.2 C) liquid. For nearly a century, it has been widely used as a solvent, moisturizer and preservative-primarily due to its ability to inhibit bacterial growth-in skincare and food products, generally at concentrations below 10% by weight [1]. PG is also employed as an anti-freeze and de-icing agent [1]. The US Food and Drug Administration considers PG to be “Generally Recognized As Safe” (GRAS) [1]. The purpose of this communication is to briefly highlight two surprising properties of PG: its potential as (1) a highly potent topical microbicide and (2) a novel tissue- regenerative agent. This report also explores potential mechanisms behind these effects and discusses possible future clinical applications.