A polyether surfactant and emollient created by copolymerizing 10 units of PEG and 2 units of PPG with propylheptyl alcohol. It functions as a mild solubilizer for oil-soluble cosmetic actives and provides a soft, cushiony feel during application. Used in everything from clear toners to light moisturizers.
Key Skin Benefits
+ Mild solubilizing action — helps incorporate essential oils and fragrances into water-based products
+ Cushioning feel — adds a pleasant, soft texture without greasiness
+ Compatible with sensitive skin formulas — low irritation profile
Pros
+ CIR-reviewed — safe as used in cosmetic products
+ Non-comedogenic — will not block pores
+ Low sensitization risk — well-tolerated on facial skin
+ Works in both clear and opaque formulations
Cons
− Class-level safety data — not extensively studied as an individual entity
− Synthetic polymer — does not fit natural or green beauty standards
− Ethoxylated — residual 1,4-dioxane risk from poor manufacturing
Specifications
Property
Value
Usage Areas
Face, Eye, Body
Product Type
Leave-On, Rinse-Off
Source
Synthetic
Natural Level
Synthetic
Safety Ratings
Metric
Rating
Skin Sensitivity
1/5 (very low)
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
EWG Score
1/10
Regional Regulatory Limits
Region
Leave-on %
Rinse-off %
Status
EU (CosIng)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
Japan (MHLW)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
ASEAN
No limit
No limit
Allowed
China (NMPA)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
Typical Usage % by Product Type
Product Type
Typical %
Light moisturizers
0.5-3%
Facial mists
0.5-2%
References
CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review) — Safety Assessment of PEG and PEG Derivatives as Used in Cosmetics. Published in International Journal of Toxicology.
CosIng (2025) — European Commission Cosmetic Ingredient Database. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/
EWG Skin Deep — Cosmetic Ingredient Hazard Score. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) — INCI Monograph and Safety Data.