Glyoxal

Glyoxal is a small water-soluble aldehyde used in formulations mainly as a preservative and crosslinking agent. It's chosen for its antimicrobial activity and polymer-binding properties, though it may raise irritation concerns at higher levels.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A preservative that fights microbes but may irritate sensitive skin.
Category
Preservative
Type
Preservative

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Poor

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Helps keep products fresher by discouraging microbe growth and can improve formula durability. Those with reactive skin may prefer to avoid it.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Used in certain water-based gels, lotions, and nail products to stabilize texture and extend shelf life.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Strong skin sensitizer and irritant. Restricted in many jurisdictions; avoid use in most leave-on skin products. If used in nail products, follow strict concentration limits and avoid skin contact; keep away from eyes and broken skin.

Is Glyoxal a Good Ingredient?

It rates Poor because, despite working as a preservative and crosslinker, its reactive dialdehyde chemistry carries a comparatively high risk of irritation and sensitization. The benefit-to-risk balance simply doesn't hold up against safer preservative alternatives, which is why it sits at the bottom.

Products with Glyoxal

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