PEG/PPG/POLYBUTYLENE GLYCOL-8/5/3 GLYCERIN
INCI: PEG/PPG/POLYBUTYLENE GLYCOL-8/5/3 GLYCERIN | Function: Emulsifier, Skin Conditioning | Type: Emulsifier
What Is PEG/PPG/POLYBUTYLENE GLYCOL-8/5/3 GLYCERIN?
A polyether-modified silicone compound that functions as a versatile emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent in cosmetic formulations.
Key Skin Benefits
- + Stabilizes oil-water mixtures — prevents phase separation in emulsions
- + Imparts a smooth, silky after-feel — reduces tackiness of other ingredients
Pros
- + Generally well-tolerated — CIR-reviewed as safe for cosmetic use
- + Non-comedogenic — does not clog pores
- + Water-dispersible — easier to formulate than pure silicones
- + Lightweight conditioning — does not weigh hair or skin down
Cons
- − Limited independent research — most safety data from CIR panel review of the class
- − Synthetic origin — not suitable for natural/organic formulations
- − PEG-containing — trace 1,4-dioxane possible if poorly purified (rare in cosmetics)
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 % |
|---|
| Creams / lotions | 1-5% |
| Cleansers | 1-3% |
References
- CIR (2018) — Safety Assessment of PEG/PPG Dimethicone Crosspolymers as Used in Cosmetics. Cosmetic Ingredient Review.
- CosIng (2025) — European Commission Cosmetic Ingredient Database. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/
- EWG Skin Deep — Hazard Score Assessment. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
- Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) — INCI Monograph.