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Moumoujus

PEG/PPG-9/2 DIMETHYL ETHER.

Valuable CAS 61419-46-3 / SKIN CONDITIONING

PEG/PPG-9/2 Dimethyl Ether is a multi-functional polyether compound that enhances the skin barrier by improving stratum corneum lipid organization. It effectively acts as a humectant, providing significant moisture retention without a sticky residue, and plays a role in enhancing UV protection.

Summary

Skin Conditioning Humectant Solvent Solubilizer Surfactant Emulsifying Agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions primarily as a skin conditioning agent, restoring elasticity and reducing flakiness in dry or compromised skin. Its key mechanism involves increasing the ordering of lipid structures within the stratum corneum, specifically to a depth of approximately 3 µm from the surface, which fortifies the skin's barrier function and limits the diffusion of external substances into the epidermis. Additionally, it provides a high moisture-retaining effect as a humectant, and serves as a solvent, solubilizer, surfactant, and emulsifying agent for various cosmetic components.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 1–20%
Optimal

2.5%

Key findings

  1. 01 When combined with a polyalkylene glycol, PEG/PPG-9/2 Dimethyl Ether enhances UV protection capabilities, particularly against heat-induced effects, with optimal results observed at concentrations of 2.5% by mass or higher within the 1.0%-20.0% range.
  2. 02 Daily application improves skin barrier function and reduces substance diffusion into the epidermis by increasing lipid ordering in the stratum corneum, leading to improvement in dry skin conditions.
  3. 03 Provides a high moisture-retaining effect without a sticky sensation, aiding in the prevention and improvement of dry skin. A synergistic effect on dry skin is noted when used in combination with glycerol.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The ingredient exhibits general stability across both acidic and alkaline pH environments.

Synergies

  • Glycerol (for enhanced dry skin improvement)
  • Polyalkylene glycols (e.g., polyethylene glycol 300) (for enhanced UV protection)

Conflicts

  • Potential for phase incompatibility with certain other water-soluble polymers.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that alkyl PEG/PPG ethers, including PEG/PPG-9/2 Dimethyl Ether, are safe for use in cosmetics, provided products are formulated to be non-irritating. While no specific maximum concentration was set for this particular ether, the overall recommended maximum use for alkyl PEG/PPG ethers is generally lower than for alkyl PEG ethers or PPGs individually. FDA VCRP data from 2012 indicates its historical use in cosmetic formulations.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Moderate
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

This versatile ingredient is valuable for its capacity to reinforce the skin barrier, provide non-sticky hydration, and enhance UV protection, making it particularly beneficial for addressing dry and sensitive skin concerns while aiding in formulation stability.

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