Global 1,3-butylene Glycol Market Size, Share Analysis Report By Product Type (Pharmaceutical Grade, Industrial Grade), By Function (Humectant, Emollient, Stabilizer, Intermediate), By Application (Cosmetic And Personal Care Products, Food Products, Plastics And Polymers, Paint And Coating, Food, Others) , By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

The Global 1,3-butylene Glycol Market size is expected to be worth around USD 347.9 Mn by 2034, from USD 196.1 Mn in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

The 1,3-butylene glycol market is a rapidly evolving sector within the global chemical industry, fueled by its diverse applications across various industries such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food. As a colorless liquid, 1,3-butylene glycol functions as a humectant, solvent, and intermediate in chemical processes, making it a crucial ingredient in products ranging from skin creams to food items.

According to a report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the market for bio-based chemicals, including 1,3-butylene glycol, is projected to expand significantly, with an estimated value of $400 billion by 2025. This growth is attributed to the rising demand for sustainable and renewable materials across various industries.

The compound’s broad range of uses extends to personal care and cosmetics, where it plays a key role in enhancing product texture and moisturizing properties. The surge in demand for skincare and beauty products is one of the main drivers behind the market’s growth. The European personal care sector alone generated approximately €29 billion in 2022, catering to the continent’s 500 million consumers, as reported by Cosmetics Europe. In addition, growing consumer awareness about the ingredients in beauty and healthcare products, along with an increasing demand for safe and effective formulations, is expected to further propel the market for 1,3-butylene glycol in the coming years.

Key Takeaways

The 1,3-butylene glycol market is expected to reach USD 347.9 million by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.9% from USD 196.1 million in 2024.
Pharmaceutical grade accounted for over 73.3% of the market share in 2024.
The humectant function held 55.4% market share in 2024.
The cosmetics & personal care application captured 67.3% of the market share in 2024.
The Asia Pacific region led with a 33.7% market share valued at approximately USD 66.6 million in 2024.

By Product Type

In 2024, Pharmaceutical Grade 1,3-butylene glycol held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 73.3% share of the overall market. This product type continues to be a leading choice due to its high purity and safety profile, which are essential in pharmaceutical applications. Pharmaceutical-grade 1,3-butylene glycol is extensively used in the formulation of various medications, including oral and injectable drugs, where stringent quality standards are required. Its role as a solvent and stabilizer in the pharmaceutical industry further drives its demand.

This segment is forecast to see steady growth, as more pharmaceutical companies rely on high-purity ingredients to meet regulatory standards and improve the efficacy of their products. The consistent demand from the healthcare sector, coupled with the expanding global pharmaceutical market, suggests that pharmaceutical-grade 1,3-butylene glycol will continue to dominate, retaining its significant market share through 2025 and beyond.

By Function

In 2024, Humectant held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 55.4% share of the 1,3-butylene glycol market. This function continues to be the most widely used, primarily due to its ability to retain moisture and enhance the texture of products in various industries. As a humectant, 1,3-butylene glycol is highly valued in personal care, cosmetic formulations, and skincare products, where it helps to maintain hydration and improve product performance. Its mild, non-irritating nature also makes it a preferred choice for sensitive skin applications, further driving its widespread use.

Innovations in personal care and cosmetic formulations that emphasize longer-lasting hydration are likely to boost this trend, reinforcing humectant’s position in the market. The segment’s growth will also be supported by the increasing demand for high-quality ingredients that offer both functional benefits and safety for consumers. As a result, humectant-driven applications of 1,3-butylene glycol are expected to maintain their leading market share in 2025 and beyond.

By Application

In 2024, Cosmetic & Personal Care Products held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 67.3% share of the 1,3-butylene glycol market. This significant share can be attributed to the versatile role that 1,3-butylene glycol plays in enhancing the performance and appeal of personal care and cosmetic products. As an effective humectant, solvent, and skin conditioning agent, it is widely used in formulations for moisturizers, serums, shampoos, and deodorants. The growing consumer demand for high-quality skincare and beauty products that offer hydration, smoothness, and long-lasting effects is a key driver of this segment’s dominance.

The demand for 1,3-butylene glycol in the cosmetic and personal care industry is expected to continue its upward trajectory. With an increasing focus on clean beauty and skin health, formulations featuring ingredients like 1,3-butylene glycol are gaining popularity due to their effectiveness and gentle nature. As the global beauty industry evolves with new trends and innovations, such as anti-aging and multifunctional skincare products, 1,3-butylene glycol is poised to maintain its leading position in this segment. In 2025, the segment is projected to remain robust, benefiting from both new product launches and the continued preference for high-performance cosmetic formulations.

Key Market Segments

By Product Type

• Pharmaceutical Grade
• Industrial Grade

By Function

• Humectant
• Emollient
• Stabilizer
• Intermediate

By Application

• Cosmetic & Personal Care Products
• Food Products
• Plastics & Polymers
• Paint & Coating
• Food
• Others

Drivers

Growing Demand for Clean and Safe Ingredients in Cosmetics & Personal Care

One of the key driving factors behind the growing use of 1,3-butylene glycol in the market is the increasing demand for clean, safe, and effective ingredients in the cosmetic and personal care industries. Consumers are becoming more conscious of what goes into the products they use, with a shift toward formulations that are both effective and gentle on the skin. This shift has been bolstered by industry regulations and government initiatives that prioritize safety and sustainability in personal care products.

For example, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Commission have strict guidelines regarding the safety and purity of ingredients used in cosmetics. In 2020, the FDA published a report urging manufacturers to adopt safer, more transparent ingredient standards, ensuring that products meet safety guidelines without compromising performance. This has influenced the personal care sector to seek ingredients that meet these growing regulatory demands while also providing added functional benefits.

1,3-butylene glycol is seen as a reliable ingredient in this context, as it is non-toxic, non-irritating, and biodegradable, making it suitable for sensitive skin formulations. According to the European Commission, around 60% of consumers in the European Union prioritize ingredient transparency and sustainability when purchasing cosmetic products. This rising demand is pushing manufacturers to use ingredients like 1,3-butylene glycol, which meet both safety and efficacy standards.

Restraints

Concerns Over Environmental Impact and Sustainability

One of the significant restraining factors for the growth of 1,3-butylene glycol in various industries is the increasing concern over its environmental impact and sustainability. As demand grows for eco-friendly and renewable ingredients, industries are facing pressure to minimize their reliance on synthetic chemicals that may contribute to pollution or unsustainable practices. While 1,3-butylene glycol is often considered safer and more biodegradable than some other chemical alternatives, its production process can still involve high energy consumption and reliance on petrochemical-based feedstocks.

The European Union has been particularly proactive in pushing for sustainability, with their “Green Deal” aiming to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. This has led to stricter regulations on the sourcing and manufacturing of chemicals, including the need for greener production methods and raw material sourcing. According to a report by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), around 35% of chemicals produced within the EU are subject to stricter environmental criteria as part of their sustainability initiatives. This pushes manufacturers to rethink their supply chains and consider alternatives that are less resource-intensive.

Additionally, consumer awareness about the carbon footprint of products is growing. A 2021 survey by the European Commission found that nearly 70% of EU consumers are willing to pay more for products that are environmentally friendly. This trend has caused companies to look for more sustainable alternatives to ingredients like 1,3-butylene glycol, especially in the cosmetics and personal care sectors, where plant-based or naturally derived alternatives are becoming increasingly popular.

Opportunity

Expansion in the Sustainable and Natural Ingredient Market

A significant growth opportunity for 1,3-butylene glycol lies in the increasing demand for sustainable and natural ingredients across various sectors, especially in the personal care and cosmetics industries. As more consumers become environmentally conscious, there is a clear shift towards products that are made from renewable, bio-based materials rather than synthetic chemicals. This growing preference aligns well with the renewable production capabilities of 1,3-butylene glycol, which can be derived from plant-based sources such as corn or sugarcane.

The global personal care industry has already started to adopt more sustainable practices. This trend presents a major opportunity for ingredients like 1,3-butylene glycol, which, when derived from renewable sources, can be marketed as both an effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional synthetic chemicals.

Government initiatives, such as the European Union’s “Farm to Fork” strategy, which promotes the transition towards more sustainable and circular economies, also support this shift. The initiative encourages the use of bio-based, biodegradable ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products. As such, 1,3-butylene glycol’s versatility as a bio-based ingredient makes it well-positioned to benefit from these regulatory pushes and consumer demand for cleaner, greener products.

Trends

Rising Demand for Plant-Based and Bio-Derived 1,3-Butylene Glycol

One of the latest trends in the 1,3-butylene glycol market is the growing shift towards plant-based and bio-derived sources for the ingredient. As sustainability becomes a key focus for both consumers and manufacturers, there is increasing demand for ingredients that are derived from renewable resources, rather than petroleum-based ones. This trend is particularly evident in the cosmetics, personal care, and even food industries, where there is a push towards using more eco-friendly and biodegradable ingredients.

In 2024, the global market for bio-based chemicals, including bio-derived 1,3-butylene glycol, is expected to grow at a robust pace. This trend is being driven by a combination of consumer demand for more natural products and government incentives promoting the use of renewable raw materials. For example, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has introduced policies encouraging the adoption of bio-based chemicals, including 1,3-butylene glycol, through its BioPreferred Program, which aims to expand the use of renewable materials in industrial applications.

Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on developing and using bio-based 1,3-butylene glycol, which can be derived from sources like corn, sugarcane, or even waste biomass. This aligns with the goals of reducing carbon footprints and meeting sustainability targets set by regulatory bodies. The trend is especially strong in the beauty and personal care sector, where products made with bio-derived ingredients are gaining significant traction.

Regional Analysis

In 2024, the Asia Pacific (APAC) region held a dominant position in the global 1,3-butylene glycol market, accounting for 33.7% of the total market share, valued at approximately USD 66.6 million. This region has become a key hub for the production and consumption of 1,3-butylene glycol, driven by the strong growth of industries such as cosmetics, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. The rapid industrialization and urbanization in countries like China, India, and Japan are significant factors fueling the demand for 1,3-butylene glycol in the region.

The growing demand for personal care and cosmetic products, coupled with increasing consumer awareness of skin health and safety, has boosted the use of 1,3-butylene glycol in formulations across APAC. Countries like China and India have seen a surge in the demand for cosmetic products, leading to a higher consumption of ingredients like 1,3-butylene glycol due to its hydrating and skin-conditioning properties. The region also benefits from a large, cost-effective manufacturing base, which has made APAC a leading supplier of this chemical to global markets.

Furthermore, the expanding pharmaceutical sector in APAC, supported by government initiatives in countries like India, is also contributing to the growth of 1,3-butylene glycol. The increasing adoption of bio-based and sustainable ingredients in the region’s cosmetic and personal care products is another trend driving the market, further solidifying APAC’s dominance. As a result, the APAC region is expected to maintain its leading market share through 2025 and beyond, continuing to lead the global 1,3-butylene glycol market.

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

Daicel Corporation is a leading global chemical company that specializes in the production of 1,3-butylene glycol, among other chemicals. With a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, Daicel uses advanced manufacturing technologies to produce bio-based 1,3-butylene glycol. The company’s product offerings cater to a wide range of industries, including automotive, electronics, and personal care, with a commitment to environmental sustainability and high-quality standards.

Genomatica is a biotechnology company focused on producing renewable chemicals, including 1,3-butylene glycol, using bio-based processes. Known for its proprietary technology, the company leverages sustainable methods to produce high-performance chemicals. Genomatica’s approach emphasizes reducing reliance on fossil resources, aiming to deliver greener, more sustainable products while meeting the growing demand for bio-derived chemicals in various industries like personal care and plastics.

Godavari Biorefineries Ltd. is an Indian company that manufactures 1,3-butylene glycol through sustainable, bio-based processes. As a major player in the renewable chemical industry, Godavari focuses on producing eco-friendly and high-quality bio-based chemicals. Their commitment to reducing environmental impact aligns with growing market demand for sustainable and renewable ingredients, particularly in the personal care, pharmaceutical, and food industries.

Haihang Industry Co. Ltd. is a global supplier of specialty chemicals, including 1,3-butylene glycol. Based in China, Haihang is known for its wide range of high-quality chemical products, serving industries such as personal care, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. The company emphasizes technological innovation and quality control, ensuring that its 1,3-butylene glycol meets the stringent requirements of its global customer base.

Top Key Players

• Daicel Corporation
• Genomatica
• Godavari Biorefineries Ltd.
• Haihang Industry Co. Ltd.
• KH Neochem Co. Ltd.
• MMP Inc.
• OQ Chemicals GmbH
• OXEA GmbH
• Penta Manufacturing Company
• Penta Manufacturing Company
• Shanghai Jinjin Industry Co. Ltd.

Recent Developments

In 2024, Godavari holds around 5-6% of the global 1,3-butylene glycol market share, and this is expected to grow as more industries adopt renewable, sustainable chemicals.

In 2024 Daicel Corporation, the company continues to expand its production capabilities, focusing on the sustainable production of 1,3-butylene glycol from renewable sources. With a production capacity of over 50,000 metric tons per year, Daicel has positioned itself as one of the leading suppliers, especially in the Asia Pacific region.

Report Scope