PPG-2 Hydroxyethyl Coco/Isostearamide

What is PPG-2 Hydroxyethyl Coco/Isostearamide?

PPG-2 Hydroxyethyl Coco/Isostearamide is a synthetic non-ionic surfactant derived from fatty acids sourced from coconut oil and isostearic acid, chemically structured as an amide linking a hydroxyethyl group with a polypropylene glycol chain of two units. Commonly found in rinse-off personal care items such as shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers, it operates by reducing surface tension between water, oils, and soils. This enables effective dirt removal through micelle formation, boosts lather quality for better user experience, solubilizes fragrances and oils into watery bases for clear solutions, and adjusts product thickness to prevent separation while ensuring smooth application and rinse-off.

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.
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.
Foam booster
Enhances foam volume and creaminess and can stabilize lather, improving sensory feel and perceived cleansing in shampoos and wash-off products.
Solubilizing agent
Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Benefits

Supports gentle cleansing by lifting impurities without harsh stripping.

Increases foam richness and stability for satisfying wash sensations.

Helps blend oils and scents into water formulas for even distribution.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People seeking mild cleansers for daily routines.
Individuals with known allergies to coconut-derived ingredients.
Those preferring foam-enhanced shampoos or body washes.
Those sensitive to amide-based surfactants.
Users wanting stable, clear formulations like toners or sprays.
People preferring completely natural or minimalist products.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by environmental health assessments.
  • Typically shows low potential for skin sensitization in cosmetic use.

Frequently Asked Questions about PPG-2 Hydroxyethyl Coco/Isostearamide

What products contain this ingredient?

Primarily rinse-off items like shampoos, body washes, and micellar cleansers.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Its mild non-ionic profile supports use in gentle formulations.

Does it clog pores?

Assigned a zero comedogenic rating, indicating low pore-clogging risk.