PPG-2-Ceteareth-9

What is PPG-2-Ceteareth-9?

PPG-2 Ceteareth-9 is a non-ionic surfactant derived from cetearyl alcohol, a blend of cetyl and stearyl alcohols typically sourced from vegetable oils or synthetic processes. It features nine ethoxy groups and two propoxy groups, creating a hydrophilic head and lipophilic tail structure. This enables it to act at the interface between oil and water. Commonly found in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and conditioning lotions, it reduces surface tension to facilitate dirt removal and ingredient blending. In formulations, it forms micelles that trap oils and impurities for rinsing, while also creating stable emulsions that prevent separation, ensuring products remain uniform and effective during use. Its balanced chain length provides good solubility and mild performance across various pH levels.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-3 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.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Supports gentle cleansing by enabling effective removal of oils and residues without harshness.

Helps create stable lotions and creams with smooth, even textures.

Contributes to desirable foaming action in washes and shampoos.

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 using daily cleansers for reliable performance and rinse-off.
Those with rare allergies to ethoxylated ingredients.
Users of emulsified products like moisturizers seeking consistent blend.
People preferring strictly natural or plant-derived surfactants.
People preferring non-comedogenic formulas to maintain clear pores.
Individuals sensitive to synthetic emulsifiers in high concentrations.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard with minimal skin penetration concerns from regulatory reviews.
  • Non-comedogenic profile supports use in acne-prone routines.

Frequently Asked Questions about PPG-2-Ceteareth-9

What does PPG-2 Ceteareth-9 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse and foam, and as an emulsifier to mix oils and water stably.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Its mild non-ionic nature makes it generally well-tolerated in rinse-off applications.

Does it clog pores?

Rated non-comedogenic, so unlikely to contribute to pore blockage.