Global 1,2 Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market Size, Share, And Business Benefits By Purity Level (99%, 98%, Others), By Product (Pharmaceutical Grade, Chemical Grade), By Application (Cosmetic, Ink, Medicine, Others), By End-User (Cosmetics and Personal Care, Pharmaceuticals, Industrial, Others), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

Global 1,2 Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market is expected to be worth around USD 305.0 Million by 2034, up from USD 171.9 Million in 2024, and grow at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2025 to 2034. Asia-Pacific dominated the 1,2-Hexanediol market with 44.3%, reaching USD 76.1 Mn.

1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) is a moisture-retaining agent and preservative used predominantly in the cosmetics and personal care industry. It is known for its excellent microbial and bacteriostatic properties, which makes it a preferred choice in formulations requiring a longer shelf life. This diol is also valued for its ability to enhance the texture and feel of skin care products and hair care products, contributing to a smoother, more stable application.

The market for 1,2-Hexanediol is experiencing significant growth driven by the expanding global cosmetics sector, particularly in regions like Asia-Pacific where beauty and personal care industries are booming. As consumers increasingly seek safer, more natural preservatives, 1,2-Hexanediol is becoming an attractive alternative to traditional parabens and formaldehyde releasers, pushing demand upward.

Key growth factors for the 1,2-Hexanediol market include its compatibility with various cosmetic formulations and its non-irritating nature, which is crucial in products designed for sensitive skin. The trend towards clean and green beauty products is further enhancing its market position, as formulators look for ingredients that align with eco-friendly and health-conscious consumer preferences.

Opportunities within this market are abundant, particularly in developing formulations that cater to niche markets such as vegan and organic personal care products. Innovations in product usage and integration into other industrial applications, such as pharmaceuticals and food preservation, could broaden the market scope, offering substantial growth potential for stakeholders in the 1,2-Hexanediol sector.

Key Takeaways

• Global 1,2 Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market is expected to be worth around USD 305.0 Million by 2034, up from USD 171.9 Million in 2024, and grow at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2025 to 2034.
• By Purity Level of 99%, 1,2 Hexanediol captures 64.4% of the market share.
• Pharmaceutical Grade 1,2 Hexanediol dominates with a 56.3% share in product segmentation.
• In applications, 1,2 Hexanediol for cosmetics holds a 44.3% market portion.
• Cosmetics and personal care end-users command a 53.3% share with 1,2 Hexanediol.
• In 2024, Asia-Pacific dominated the 1,2-Hexanediol Market with a 44.3% share, USD 76.1 Mn.

By Purity Level Analysis

1,2 Hexanediol 99% purity level dominates the market share at 64.4%.

In 2024, 99% held a dominant market position in the By Purity Level segment of the 1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market, with a 64.4% share. The 99% purity level continues to be the industry standard due to its superior performance in cosmetic formulations, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications, where high purity is essential to maintain product stability and efficacy.

On the other hand, the 98% purity level holds a notable share, driven by cost-sensitive end users in personal care, coatings, and chemical intermediates that prioritize functionality over ultra-high purity. While 99% purity remains dominant, 98% is gaining traction in applications where minor impurities do not significantly impact the final product’s quality.

Market growth for both purity levels is supported by increasing demand for preservative boosters in skincare, rising usage in industrial lubricants, and expanding applications in high-performance coatings. However, regulatory shifts in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals are expected to reinforce the preference for 99% purity, particularly in North America and Europe, where stringent standards favor high-purity inputs.

By Product Analysis

Pharmaceutical grade 1,2 Hexanediol holds a significant 56.3% product market share.

In 2024, Pharmaceutical Grade held a dominant market position in the By Product segment of the 1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market, with a 56.3% share. This dominance is driven by its high demand in pharmaceuticals, personal care, and cosmetics, where stringent safety and efficacy standards necessitate ultra-pure raw materials.

The pharmaceutical-grade variant is particularly favored in skincare formulations, ophthalmic solutions, and topical drug delivery systems, where its antimicrobial and moisturizing properties enhance product stability.

Chemical Grade, while holding a lower market share, remains a key segment, catering to industrial applications such as coatings, adhesives, and specialty chemical formulations. It is widely used as a solvent and intermediate in chemical synthesis, where ultra-high purity is not a critical requirement. Growth in this segment is supported by expanding industrial manufacturing and increased demand for functional additives in paints, lubricants, and plasticizers.

Both segments are experiencing market expansion due to increasing regulatory scrutiny on ingredient safety and rising consumer preference for high-performance materials. Moving forward, technological advancements in purification and sustainable production processes are expected to influence the competitive landscape, with pharmaceutical grade maintaining its lead due to its critical role in premium personal care and medical formulations.

By Application Analysis

Cosmetics application of 1,2 Hexanediol captures 44.3% of the market.

In 2024, Cosmetic held a dominant market position in the By Application segment of the 1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market, with a 44.3% share. This leadership is attributed to the increasing use of 1,2-Hexanediol as a preservative booster, humectant, and emollient in personal care and skincare formulations.

The demand is particularly strong in premium skincare, sunscreens, and anti-aging products, which it enhance stability and effectiveness. Growing consumer awareness of safe and multifunctional cosmetic ingredients further drives its adoption in the segment.

The Ink segment follows as a growing market, benefiting from its role as a solvent and stabilizer in high-performance printing formulations. The compound enhances ink consistency, drying efficiency, and adhesion, making it a preferred choice in industrial and commercial printing applications.

Meanwhile, Medicine is another key application, where 1,2-Hexanediol is utilized in pharmaceutical formulations and topical medical products. Its antimicrobial properties and compatibility with active ingredients make it a valuable component in ophthalmic solutions, topical creams, and transdermal drug delivery systems. Increasing pharmaceutical R&D and the rising demand for stable excipients in drug formulations are expected to support market expansion in this segment.

held a dominant market position in the By Application segment of the 1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market, with a 44.3% share. This leadership is attributed to the increasing use of 1,2-Hexanediol as a preservative booster, humectant, and emollient in personal care and skincare formulations. The demand is particularly strong for premium skincare, sunscreens, and anti-aging products, which it enhance stability and effectiveness. Growing consumer awareness of safe and multifunctional cosmetic ingredients further drives its adoption in the segment.

The Ink segment follows as a growing market, benefiting from its role as a solvent and stabilizer in high-performance printing formulations. The compound enhances ink consistency, drying efficiency, and adhesion, making it a preferred choice in industrial and commercial printing applications.

Meanwhile, Medicine is another key application, where 1,2-Hexanediol is utilized in pharmaceutical formulations and topical medical products. Its antimicrobial properties and compatibility with active ingredients make it a valuable component in ophthalmic solutions, topical creams, and transdermal drug delivery systems. Increasing pharmaceutical R&D and the rising demand for stable excipients in drug formulations are expected to support market expansion in this segment.

By End-User Analysis

Cosmetics and personal care are major end-users at 53.3% market share.

In 2024, Cosmetics and Personal Care held a dominant market position in the By End-User segment of the 1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market, with a 53.3% share. The segment’s leadership is driven by the rising demand for high-performance cosmetic ingredients, with 1,2-Hexanediol serving as a preservative booster, humectant, and emollient in skincare, haircare, and personal hygiene products. The growing consumer shift towards safe, multifunctional, and skin-friendly formulations has further fueled its adoption in premium and dermatologically tested cosmetics.

The Pharmaceuticals segment remains a significant market, leveraging 1,2-Hexanediol’s antimicrobial properties and formulation stability in topical creams, ophthalmic solutions, and transdermal drug delivery systems. Increasing regulatory compliance for pharmaceutical excipients and demand for effective penetration enhancers in medicinal formulations are key growth drivers for this category.

The Industrial segment, while holding a smaller share, benefits from expanding applications in coatings, adhesives, and specialty chemical formulations. Its use as a solvent, dispersing agent, and stabilizer supports various manufacturing and material processing industries. Looking ahead, continuous innovation in formulation technologies and sustainable production is expected to strengthen demand across all end-user segments.

Key Market Segments

By Purity Level

• 99%
• 98%
• Others

By Product

• Pharmaceutical Grade
• Chemical Grade

By Application

• Cosmetic
• Ink
• Medicine
• Others

By End-User

• Cosmetics and Personal Care
• Pharmaceuticals
• Industrial
• Others

Driving Factors

Rising Demand for Safe and Multifunctional Ingredients

One of the key driving factors of the 1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market is the increasing demand for safe and multifunctional ingredients, particularly in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and personal care. Consumers are looking for products that offer multiple benefits, such as hydration, antimicrobial properties, and preservation enhancement.

With stricter global regulations on cosmetic preservatives, 1,2-Hexanediol is emerging as a preferred alternative, reducing the need for harmful parabens. Its role as a skin-friendly, non-irritating, and effective formulation stabilizer is further boosting its adoption across various industries.

Restraining Factors

High Production Costs and Limited Raw Materials

A major restraining factor in the 1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market is its high production cost and limited availability of raw materials. The manufacturing process involves complex chemical synthesis and purification, leading to higher costs compared to alternative ingredients.

Additionally, fluctuations in raw material supply and price volatility create challenges for manufacturers, impacting overall profitability. These factors make it difficult for smaller players to enter the market. As a result, end-users may seek cost-effective substitutes, limiting the widespread adoption of 1,2-Hexanediol in certain applications.

Growth Opportunity

Expansion in Natural and Sustainable Formulations

A key growth opportunity in the 1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market lies in its increasing use in natural and sustainable formulations. With rising consumer preference for eco-friendly and clean-label products, manufacturers are focusing on biodegradable and plant-based alternatives.

1,2-Hexanediol’s ability to replace synthetic preservatives while maintaining formulation stability makes it highly attractive for green beauty, organic skincare, and sustainable pharmaceuticals. Companies investing in bio-based production methods and eco-certifications can tap into this growing demand, enhancing their market position and driving long-term profitability.

Latest Trends

Growing Adoption of Waterless Beauty Products

A major trend shaping the 1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market is its increasing use in waterless beauty products. As brands shift toward sustainable and concentrated formulations, water-free skincare and cosmetics are gaining popularity.

1,2-Hexanediol plays a crucial role in these products by providing preservative-boosting and moisture-retaining properties, ensuring product longevity without water-based preservatives. This trend aligns with consumer preferences for eco-friendly, travel-friendly, and high-performance beauty solutions, driving demand for 1,2-Hexanediol in innovative, water-conscious product formulations worldwide.

Regional Analysis

In 2024, the Asia-Pacific region dominated the 1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market, holding a 44.3% share, valued at USD 76.1 million.

In the 1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) Market, Asia-Pacific dominated the regional landscape, holding a 44.3% share and reaching USD 76.1 million in 2024. The region’s leadership is driven by high demand from the cosmetics, personal care, and pharmaceutical industries, particularly in countries like China, South Korea, and Japan, where skincare and beauty products are witnessing rapid growth. Increasing investments in chemical manufacturing and formulation innovations further support market expansion in this region.

North America and Europe are key markets, benefiting from stringent regulations promoting high-quality, safe, and multifunctional ingredients in personal care and pharmaceutical formulations. The rising preference for paraben-free and eco-friendly preservatives continues to drive demand across both regions. North America is particularly witnessing growth in pharmaceutical and medical applications, while Europe leads in sustainable and clean-label cosmetic product development.

Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets, driven by expanding industrial, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors. Growing urbanization and rising disposable incomes are encouraging premium skincare and personal hygiene product adoption in these regions. However, cost constraints and limited local production capacities may slightly hinder faster growth compared to established markets.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The 1,2-Hexanediol (CAS 6920-22-5) market in 2024 is shaped by a mix of established chemical giants and specialty ingredient manufacturers, each leveraging their strengths in R&D, production capacity, and regional market penetration.

BASF SE, Dow Chemical Company, and Eastman Chemical Company remain dominant players due to their strong supply chain integration, extensive global distribution networks, and technological advancements in chemical synthesis. Their focus on high-purity 1,2-Hexanediol for pharmaceuticals and personal care applications has positioned them at the forefront of market growth.

Evonik Industries AG, Clariant AG, and Croda International Plc are also key players, particularly in the cosmetic and personal care segment, leveraging their expertise in formulation chemistry and sustainable product innovations.

LG Chem Ltd., Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, and Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd. are driving market expansion in Asia-Pacific, which holds a 44.3% market share, valued at USD 76.1 million. These companies are capitalizing on cost-efficient production and growing demand for high-performance ingredients in the region.

Arkema Group, Celanese, and Huntsman Corporation are focusing on industrial applications, where 1,2-Hexanediol is used as a solvent and chemical intermediate. Meanwhile, Lonza Group Ltd. and Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. are targeting the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, responding to the growing demand for high-purity excipients.

Strategic investments in bio-based production, advanced purification methods, and regulatory compliance are expected to define the competitive landscape, with sustainability and multifunctionality emerging as key differentiators.

Top Key Players in the Market

• Arkema Group
• Ashland Global Holdings Inc.
• BASF SE
• Celanese
• Chungdo
• Clariant AG
• CM
• Croda International Plc
• Dow Chemical Company
• Eastman
• Eastman Chemical Company
• Evonik Industries AG
• Huntsman Corporation
• INEOS Group Holdings S.A.
• Kao Corporation
• KIGA
• Kowa
• LG Chem Ltd.
• Lonza Group Ltd.
• Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
• Penta
• Perstorp Holding AB
• SABIC (Saudi Basic Industries Corporation)
• Sabinsa
• Solvay S.A.
• Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.
• Symrise AG
• TNJ
• Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd.

Recent Developments

• In November 2024, Symrise introduced Hydrolite® 6 green, a sustainable version of 1,2-hexanediol for cosmetics formulations. This eco-friendly product offers effective moisturization while appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
• In June 2024, Evonik Industries AG announced a strategic partnership with a biotechnology firm to develop an innovative fermentation process for producing 1,2-hexanediol from renewable resources, aiming to reduce environmental impact.

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