Used as a humectant in cosmetics and personal care products to retain moisture in skin and hair. Commonly found in lotions, creams, and toothpaste for its ability to prevent drying. Also serves as a plasticizer in pharmaceutical formulations, improving the flexibility of coatings on tablets. In food industry, functions as a stabilizer and texturizer in sugar-free products. Exhibits low toxicity and is well-tolerated in topical applications.