PPG-6-Decyltetradeceth-20

What is PPG-6-Decyltetradeceth-20?

PPG-6-Decyltetradeceth-20 is a nonionic surfactant created by ethoxylating (20 units) a blend of decyl and tetradecyl alcohols (C10-C14 fatty alcohols) and adding six propylene glycol units. This structure gives it a water-loving head and oil-attracting tail, ideal for cosmetic formulations. It appears in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and some light lotions. By reducing surface tension, it lifts away dirt, excess sebum, and makeup into foam or lather for easy rinsing. As an emulsifier, it blends oil and water phases stably, ensuring even consistency and preventing separation in multi-phase products. Its branched chain design enhances mildness compared to harsher surfactants.

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.
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 effective yet gentle removal of impurities in cleansers.

Stabilizes emulsions for smooth, consistent product textures.

Non-comedogenic formula suits pore-friendly routines.

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 daily shampoos and body washes needing reliable lather.
Those with rare allergies to polyether surfactants.
People with normal to combination skin in foaming cleansers.
People avoiding synthetic ethoxylated compounds.
Individuals seeking stable micellar or emulsion-based removers.
Users preferring strictly botanical or anhydrous products.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard in cosmetic concentrations by safety assessments.
  • Typically mild with minimal irritation in rinse-off applications.

Frequently Asked Questions about PPG-6-Decyltetradeceth-20

What does PPG-6-Decyltetradeceth-20 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse by foaming and rinses impurities, while emulsifying for stable blends.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Its mild nature makes it common in gentle rinse-off formulas, with low irritation reports.

Does it contribute to acne?

Non-comedogenic rating indicates it does not promote pore clogging.