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Moumoujus

PPG-15-BUTETH-20.

Valuable CAS 9038-95-3 / HAIR CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING, SOLVENT

PPG-15-BUTETH-20 is a versatile polyglycol ether functioning as a skin conditioning agent and solvent. It enhances the skin's tactile qualities, ensures the stable incorporation of challenging ingredients, and supports overall formulation integrity.

Summary

Solvent Emollient Skin-Conditioning Agent Hair-Conditioning Agent Emulsifying Surfactant Fragrance Functional

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates as an emollient, depositing a lubricating film on the skin's surface, which contributes to a noticeably smoother, softer, and more supple feel. As a non-ionic solubilizer and solvent, PPG-15-BUTETH-20 excels at integrating difficult-to-dissolve components, such as fragrances and plant extracts, into water-based systems. Beyond these roles, it exhibits wetting, plasticizing, and dispersing capabilities, stabilizes formulations by preventing salt crystallization, and acts as a coupling agent to enhance material adhesion. Its non-ionic nature also allows it to be broadly compatible and potentially mitigate the irritating effects associated with strong surfactants.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

2.5%

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 2 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

PPG-15-BUTETH-20 maintains excellent stability and consistent performance across a wide pH range, from strongly acidic (pH 2.0) to strongly basic (pH 10.0) environments. Its non-ionic character ensures broad compatibility with various cosmetic raw materials, including both anionic and cationic surfactants, as well as natural and synthetic oils and waxes.

Synergies

  • Enhances solubility and incorporation of poorly soluble ingredients (e.g., fragrances, plant extracts)
  • Compatible with anionic and cationic surfactants, potentially mitigating irritation
  • Stable across a wide pH range (2.0-10.0)
  • Compatible with all types of natural and synthetic oils and waxes

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
25%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that PPG-15-BUTETH-20 and related butyl polyoxyalkylene ethers are safe for use in cosmetics under current practices, provided the final product is formulated to be non-irritating. A study on a related ingredient, undiluted PPG-15 Stearyl Ether, indicated slight irritation to rabbit skin but was practically non-irritating to rabbit eyes. This ingredient is permitted in EWG VERIFIED products, adhering to specific usage restrictions. In the United States, cosmetic products and ingredients generally do not require pre-market FDA approval, and no opinion from the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) was found.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PPG-15-BUTETH-20 is a valuable, multifunctional ingredient that enhances skin conditioning, improves formulation stability and ingredient solubilization, and maintains high compatibility across a broad pH range with a low irritancy profile.

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