PPG-1 Trideceth-6

What is PPG-1 Trideceth-6?

PPG-1 Trideceth-6 is a chemically modified tridecyl alcohol, featuring short chains of propylene oxide and ethylene oxide units, making it a polyether nonionic surfactant. Commonly found in cleansers, shampoos, lotions, and creams, it performs multiple roles in formulations. As a surfactant, it reduces surface tension to facilitate dirt removal and foam generation during cleansing. In its emulsifying capacity, it bridges oil and water phases to produce stable, uniform textures in emulsions. Additionally, it delivers emollient properties by smoothing skin surfaces and aiding moisture retention, while functioning as a skin conditioning agent to enhance softness and flexibility without greasiness. Its low molecular weight allows gentle incorporation into rinse-off and leave-on products alike.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Emollient

Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.

Surfactant

Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.

Emulsifying agent

Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Skin conditioning agent

Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Softens and smooths skin texture for improved feel.

Supports effective yet mild cleansing in washes and shampoos.

Stabilizes lotions and creams for consistent application.

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 gentle cleansing without stripping moisture.	Those with rare sensitivities to ethoxylated compounds.
Users of emulsions needing stable, non-separating formulas.	People preferring strictly natural or plant-derived ingredients.
People wanting added skin smoothness from daily products.	Individuals sensitive to synthetic surfactants in high concentrations.

Safety Notes

Rated low hazard by safety assessments for cosmetic use.
Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about PPG-1 Trideceth-6

What does PPG-1 Trideceth-6 do in products?

It cleanses by lowering surface tension, emulsifies oils and water, and conditions skin for softness.

Is it safe for daily use?

Yes, recognized as low hazard in cosmetic applications with minimal irritation risk.

Does it clog pores?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of zero.