PPG-28-Buteth-35

What is PPG-28-Buteth-35?

PPG-28-Buteth-35 is a synthetic nonionic surfactant, chemically an ethoxylated and propoxylated butanol derivative with 28 propylene oxide units and 35 ethylene oxide units. This polyether compound is commonly employed in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics, including shampoos, conditioners, cleansers, lotions, and fragranced products. It works by lowering interfacial tension between immiscible phases, forming stable micelles that emulsify oils in water-based systems and promote even dispersion. As a solubilizer, it incorporates lipophilic fragrances into aqueous formulas, preventing separation and enhancing scent delivery. In cleansing products, it aids foaming and rinsability, while its humectant-like properties support conditioning by reducing friction on hair shafts and skin surfaces, leading to improved slip and manageability without residue buildup.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
Hair conditioning
Improves softness, shine, and manageability by reducing friction and static; commonly achieved with cationic agents, silicones, oils, or conditioning polymers.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
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

Stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions for uniform texture in creams and cleansers.

Solubilizes fragrances and oils, ensuring consistent scent and performance.

Enhances conditioning for softer, shinier hair and smoother skin feel.

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 conditioners seeking better manageability and shine.
Those preferring products without synthetic surfactants.
Individuals applying lotions or cleansers wanting stable, non-separating formulas.
Individuals sensitive to ethoxylated compounds, despite low irritation profile.
People desiring effective fragrance delivery in body washes or mists.
Users avoiding polyether ingredients for personal formulation choices.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe in cosmetic concentrations by regulatory reviews.
  • Displays low comedogenic potential and minimal irritation in formulations.

Frequently Asked Questions about PPG-28-Buteth-35

What products commonly contain PPG-28-Buteth-35?

Found in shampoos, conditioners, body washes, lotions, and fragranced cosmetics for emulsifying and solubilizing roles.

Is PPG-28-Buteth-35 comedogenic?

Rated non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores in typical use.

Does it cause irritation?

Generally low irritation potential based on cosmetic safety assessments.