PPG-2 Cocamide

What is PPG-2 Cocamide?

PPG-2 Cocamide is a nonionic surfactant derived from coconut fatty acids, chemically modified by adding two propylene oxide units to cocamide. This creates a short-chain polyether amide structure optimized for personal care formulations. It appears primarily in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, and conditioners. Functionally, it reduces surface tension between water, oils, and dirt, enabling effective emulsification and removal of impurities during cleansing. It also amplifies foam volume and stability for a luxurious lather, while adjusting viscosity to ensure smooth texture, better dispensing, and ingredient suspension. Its mild profile supports gentle daily use across hair and skin care without excessive drying.

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:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Foam booster
Enhances foam volume and creaminess and can stabilize lather, improving sensory feel and perceived cleansing in shampoos and wash-off products.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Benefits

Enhances foam quality for satisfying cleansing experience in washes

Stabilizes product thickness for improved usability and feel

Supports emulsification to blend oils and water effectively

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 of shampoos and body washes seeking rich lather
Those with rare allergies to coconut-derived ingredients
Individuals with normal skin wanting non-pore-clogging cleansers
Individuals sensitive to propylene glycol derivatives
People preferring mild surfactants in rinse-off products
Users avoiding synthetic surfactants entirely

Safety Notes

  • Low hazard rating from environmental health assessments
  • Non-comedogenic, suitable for acne-prone skin routines

Frequently Asked Questions about PPG-2 Cocamide

What is PPG-2 Cocamide used for?

It serves as a surfactant, foam booster, and viscosity controller in shampoos, body washes, and similar rinse-off cleansers.

Is PPG-2 Cocamide safe for daily use?

Yes, it carries a low safety rating and shows mild performance in cosmetic applications.

Does it clog pores?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of zero, making it non-pore-clogging.