Science
Mechanism of Action
PEG-4-PPG-7 C13/C15 Alcohol operates fundamentally as a surfactant, effectively reducing surface tension to allow immiscible substances, such as oils and water, to mix uniformly. This property is crucial for creating and stabilizing emulsions and enhancing the efficacy of cleansing. Additionally, it acts as a humectant by forming hydrogen bonds to attract and retain water, functions as a solvent for other active compounds, and serves as a skin conditioning agent to improve overall skin feel.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
This ingredient exhibits broad pH compatibility, allowing its effective use across neutral, mildly alkaline, and acidic systems. Its derivatives possess a range of viscosities, and it is valued for its capacity to enhance product consistency, act as a binding agent, soften textures, and serve as a base for achieving creamy formulations.
Conflicts
- Avoid use on damaged or compromised skin, such as burns, due to documented instances of systemic toxicity and contact dermatitis associated with PEG-based topical ointments.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed PEG-4-PPG-7 C13/C15 Alcohol, along with other alkyl PEG/PPG ethers, safe for use in cosmetics at current concentrations and practices, provided the final formulations are non-irritating. While no specific maximum concentration for this exact ingredient was given, PEG-4, a constituent component, has a maximum use concentration of 20% in certain product categories. It is critical to note that general PEGs should not be applied to damaged skin due to reported cases of systemic toxicity and contact dermatitis in burn patients.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
PEG-4-PPG-7 C13/C15 Alcohol is a valuable multifunctional ingredient for enhancing formulation stability, facilitating cleansing, and providing hydration, provided it is meticulously formulated to be non-irritating and strictly avoided on compromised skin.
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References
Sources