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:

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

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.