PEG/PPG-300/55 Copolymer

What is PEG/PPG-300/55 Copolymer?

PEG/PPG-300/55 Copolymer is a synthetic block copolymer derived from polymerization of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide monomers, creating a chain with approximately 300 PEG units and 55 PPG units. This structure combines hydrophilic (water-loving) PEG segments with more lipophilic (oil-compatible) PPG segments, enabling it to function as a non-ionic surfactant. Primarily used in rinse-off formulations like shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers, it lowers surface tension between water, oils, and dirt, facilitating micelle formation to lift away impurities. It also stabilizes emulsions and promotes rich lathering without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier. Its amphiphilic nature makes it versatile for water-based systems, often appearing in products designed for daily use where mild yet effective cleaning is needed.

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

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.

Benefits

Enhances cleansing by removing dirt and oils through micelle formation.

Promotes stable foaming for a satisfying lather in washes and shampoos.

Supports emulsification to blend water and oil phases evenly.

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, effective cleansers for daily routines.
Those with known sensitivity to polyethylene glycol derivatives.
Users of foaming body washes or shampoos preferring non-drying formulas.
Users preferring completely natural or PEG-free formulations.
People with normal skin types looking for surfactant-driven purity.
Individuals concerned about potential manufacturing impurities in synthetics.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low comedogenic potential, unlikely to clog pores.
  • Considered safe in rinse-off products by cosmetic safety reviews, with moderate overall hazard profile.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG/PPG-300/55 Copolymer

What does PEG/PPG-300/55 Copolymer do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse by reducing surface tension and enable foaming.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

It has low irritation potential in rinse-off formulas, but patch test if sensitive.

Does it cause breakouts?

Rated comedogenic 0, so unlikely to contribute to pore clogging.