PEG-26-PPG-30 Phosphate

What is PEG-26-PPG-30 Phosphate?

PEG-26-PPG-30 Phosphate is a synthetic ingredient formed by esterifying a copolymer of polyethylene glycol (26 units) and polypropylene glycol (30 units) with phosphoric acid. This creates an anionic surfactant commonly incorporated into rinse-off personal care products like shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and facial cleansers. It operates by reducing surface tension between water, oils, and dirt, which facilitates micelle formation to trap and remove impurities effectively. Additionally, its hydrotropic properties enhance the solubility of less water-friendly components, such as fragrances or oils, ensuring product stability and clarity. The structure provides mild yet efficient cleansing without stripping natural moisture barriers excessively, making it suitable for daily use formulations focused on hair and skin hygiene.

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:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Hydrotrope
Improves solubility of poorly soluble ingredients (like fragrances) in water-based systems, helping maintain clarity and prevent separation or cloudiness.

Benefits

Supports thorough yet gentle cleansing by lifting dirt and oils.

Enhances product clarity and stability as a hydrotrope.

Promotes foaming and emulsification for better texture in washes.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking mild surfactants in daily cleansers.
Those with known sensitivity to phosphate esters.
Users of shampoos needing good lather and rinse properties.
Individuals preferring phosphate-free formulations.
People formulating clear, stable water-based products.
Users of very minimalistic or natural-only routines.

Safety Notes

  • Rated moderate concern by EWG due to potential impurities.
  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use by ingredient review panels.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-26-PPG-30 Phosphate

What does PEG-26-PPG-30 Phosphate do in products?

It cleanses by reducing surface tension, emulsifies oils, and solubilizes ingredients for clear formulations.

Is it comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore clogging.

What is its irritation potential?

Evidence points to low irritation as a mild surfactant in rinse-off products.