Glycolic Plant Extracts for the Cosmetic Industry by EPO

Glycolic plant extracts are increasingly valued in the cosmetic industry for their versatility and effectiveness. These extracts, obtained using propylenglycol (1,2-propanediol) as a solvent, retain the active botanical compounds, offering an excellent water solubility, stability, and shelf life. At EPO, we specialize in producing high-quality glycolic plant extracts that meet the unique needs of professionals in cosmetics and beauty sectors, helping to develop innovative and effective skincare and personal care products.

The Extraction Process for Glycolic Plant Extracts

Propylene glycol is a viscous, colorless, water-soluble liquid commonly used as a solvent to extract bioactive compounds from plants. It offers numerous advantages, such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, and chemical stability, making it an ideal ingredient in cosmetic formulations. Additionally, glycols possess bacteriostatic and fungistatic properties, which allow them to act as natural preservatives; propylene glycol is non-irritating and very well tolerated.

Glycolic extracts are produced by macerating plant materials in propylene glycol or a mixture of water and glycol. This method ensures the efficient extraction of hydrophilic compounds, making the resulting extracts suitable for aqueous formulations.

Sourcing of Raw Materials

The quality of glycolic plant extracts begins with the selection of raw materials. At EPO, we carefully source botanical ingredients from trusted suppliers who adhere to stringent quality and sustainability standards. Our commitment to selecting only the best plant materials ensures that the final extracts retain the full spectrum of beneficial compounds, contributing to the efficacy of the finished products. The cutting-edge technique of DNA-barcoding analysis ensures the correct identification of our raw materials.

Quality Control

Quality is at the forefront of everything we do at EPO. Our glycolic extracts undergo rigorous testing and analysis to ensure compliance with quality standards and regulatory requirements. We monitor every production stage, from selection of raw materials to the final packaging, guaranteeing high quality and safe extracts for cosmetic use.

EPO holds several certifications that attest to the quality and safety of our products, making them the trusted choice for professionals in the beauty industry.

Applications of Glycolic Plant Extracts in the Cosmetic Industry

Skincare and Beauty Products

In the cosmetic industry, glycolic plant extracts are widely used in skincare formulations to deliver multiple skin benefits. They are commonly found in products that target:

  • Hydration: these extracts help maintain skin moisture, making them essential in formulations for hydrating and cleansing, such as lotions, creams, and serums.
  • Anti-Aging: the bioactive, antioxidant compounds in glycolic plant extracts can promote skin rejuvenation, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Skin Brightening: glycolic extracts are also used in skin brightening products, helping to reduce hyperpigmentation. 
  • Exfoliation: glycolic extracts are often included in exfoliating products to gently remove dead skin cells, revealing a smoother and more radiant complexion

Whether used in serums, creams, or cleansers, glycolic plant extracts are ideal for products aimed at enhancing skin health and appearance.

Haircare

Glycolic plant extracts are also employed in haircare products, to improve scalp health and hair shine. These extracts can act as natural conditioners, providing nourishment and protection to the hair and scalp, making them popular in shampoos, conditioners, and hair treatments.

Advantages of Glycolic Plant Extracts

Using glycolic plant extracts in cosmetics offers a wide range of benefits:

Enhanced Solubility

Glycol is highly water-soluble, therefore glycolic extracts are especially suitable for water-based formulations. This property allows for greater flexibility in creating diverse cosmetic products.

Shelf Life

The bacteriostatic and fungistatic properties of propylenglycol improve the microbiological stability of glycolic plant extracts, eliminating the need for synthetic preservatives. 

Versatility in Formulation

Glycolic plant extracts are highly versatile and can be used in a wide range of cosmetic products. Whether for facial care, body care, or haircare, these extracts maintain the bioactive properties of plants, allowing for effective product development across the beauty industry.

Organoleptic Properties

Glycolic extracts retain the scent and the color of the plant materials, giving a touch of nature to any cosmetic formulation.

Humectant Properties

Glycolic extracts also serve as humectants, helping to retain moisture in the skin and reduce water activity in formulations. This enhances the preservative effect of the product, ensuring it remains effective for longer periods.

EPO Expertise in Glycolic Plant Extracts

Legacy of Quality

With decades of experience in plant extraction, EPO has built a solid reputation for producing high-quality glycolic extracts tailored to the cosmetic industry. Our focus on innovation, quality and safety ensures that we provide our clients with the most effective and reliable extracts on the market.

Customization and Client Support

At EPO, we understand that every cosmetic product has unique needs. That’s why we offer customized glycolic extracts, working closely with clients to develop formulations that meet their specific requirements. Our team of experts is always available to provide guidance and support throughout the product development process, ensuring that you receive the best possible solutions.

How to Get Started with EPO’s Glycolic Plant Extracts

Ready to incorporate EPO’s premium glycolic plant extracts into your cosmetic products? Contact us today to request a sample, get a quote, or learn more about our offerings.

For more details on our full range of extracts, including dry, soft, fluid, glycolic, tinctures, and hydroglyceric macerates, visit our Our Extracts page.