PEG-240/Hdi Copolymer Bis-Decyltetradeceth-20 Ether

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-240/Hdi Copolymer Bis-Decyltetradeceth-20 Ether?

PEG-240/HDI Copolymer Bis-Decyltetradeceth-20 Ether is a synthetic polymer created by reacting polyethylene glycol with molecular weight around 10,000 (PEG-240), hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), and ethoxylated decyltetradecyl ethers (Bis-Decyltetradeceth-20 Ether). This results in a hydrophobically modified ethoxylated polyurethane (HEUR) structure. Primarily used in rinse-off and leave-on water-based personal care products like shower gels, shampoos, lotions, and serums. It works through associative thickening: hydrophobic end-groups cluster in water to form a reversible network, boosting viscosity at rest for suspension of particles and droplets, while shear-thinning enables easy spreading and pumping. This dual action ensures formulations maintain clarity, stability against separation, and desirable flow properties over time.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 3 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Stabilising
Improves physical and/or chemical stability (e.g., preventing separation, precipitation, or degradation) to keep performance consistent over shelf life.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Benefits

Provides adjustable thickness for smooth, user-friendly application in gels and lotions.

Supports emulsion and suspension stability to prevent ingredient separation.

Enhances overall product texture and dispensing ease without stickiness.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users seeking stable, non-drippy water-based cleansers and conditioners.
People with sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients or PEG derivatives.
Individuals preferring shear-thinning formulas that spread effortlessly.
Individuals concerned about potential trace impurities from manufacturing.
Those benefiting from clear, consistent formulations in daily skincare routines.
Users preferring strictly non-synthetic or minimalist product compositions.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for cosmetic use by regulatory assessments at typical concentrations.
  • May contain low levels of ethoxylation-related impurities; rinse-off products minimize exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-240/Hdi Copolymer Bis-Decyltetradeceth-20 Ether

What does this ingredient do in products?

It controls thickness and stabilizes formulas, improving texture and preventing separation in water-based cosmetics.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Low irritation risk based on evidence, but patch test if sensitive to synthetics.

Does it affect pore clogging?

Non-comedogenic, safe for acne-prone skin without pore-blocking issues.

Products with PEG-240/Hdi Copolymer Bis-Decyltetradeceth-20 Ether