PPG-5-Laureth-5

What is PPG-5-Laureth-5?

PPG-5-Laureth-5 is a chemically modified alcohol derived from lauryl alcohol (a C12 fatty alcohol), combined with five propylene oxide and five ethylene oxide units, creating a polyether structure. This synthetic compound belongs to the class of ethoxylated and propoxylated surfactants commonly used in rinse-off and leave-on personal care products like shampoos, body washes, moisturizers, and makeup removers. It functions by reducing surface tension between oil and water, enabling effective dirt and oil removal during cleansing. As an emulsifier, it forms a protective film around oil droplets in water-based formulas, preventing separation and ensuring even distribution. Its dual hydrophilic-lipophilic balance supports foaming in washes and slip in creams, contributing to product spreadability and sensory feel without heaviness.

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:

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.

Benefits

Enhances skin softness by filling surface imperfections and improving product glide.

Supports gentle cleansing by lowering surface tension to lift impurities.

Stabilizes emulsions for consistent texture in lotions and cleansers.

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 smoother skin feel from daily moisturizers.
Those with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients.
Users of shampoos and body washes needing reliable lather.
Individuals preferring completely natural or PEG-free products.
People preferring stable, non-separating cream formulas.
People experiencing irritation from similar surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard overall with minimal comedogenic potential.
  • Suitable for most skin types when used in typical cosmetic concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about PPG-5-Laureth-5

What does PPG-5-Laureth-5 do in products?

It cleanses by reducing surface tension, emulsifies oils in water, and softens skin for better feel.

Is PPG-5-Laureth-5 safe for daily use?

Yes, it has low overall hazard ratings and works well in everyday cleansers and creams.

Does it cause breakouts?

No, its comedogenic rating is zero, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.