PPG-5-Ceteth-20
A non-ionic emulsifier and solubilizer. It blends oil and water and dissolves actives and fragrance. Well tolerated.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
PPG-5-Ceteth-20 is a nonionic polyethylene/polypropylene glycol ether surfactant. In formulas it works as an emulsifier and solubilizer: it binds the oil phase to the water phase and helps dissolve oil-soluble actives, fragrance and oils in clear products such as micellar waters, toners and light serums. This is a functional texture ingredient, not a skincare active. It does not hydrate or firm skin on its own; its job is to keep the formula stable and uniform. Expecting a visible cosmetic effect from it would be a mistake. Applied topically the ingredient has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding without concern. Tolerance is good. Irritation and allergy potential are low, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin. At usual cosmetic levels most people show no reaction at all.
Frequently asked questions
Is PPG-5-Ceteth-20 safe during pregnancy?
PPG-5-Ceteth-20 is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is PPG-5-Ceteth-20 for?
PPG-5-Ceteth-20 suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is PPG-5-Ceteth-20 and what does it do in cosmetics?
A non-ionic emulsifier and solubilizer.
What's the INCI name for PPG-5-Ceteth-20?
The INCI name is PPG-5-Ceteth-20.
See PPG-5-Ceteth-20 in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
PPG-5 Pentaerythrityl Ether, PPG-6-Decyltetradeceth-30, Propane, Propyl Gallate, Tetrasodium Etidronate, Carbomer, Glyceryl Dibehenate, PEG-10 Isostearate
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