What Is Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000?
Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000 is a synthetic polymer derived from ethoxylated polyethyleneimine. Chemically it belongs to a family of branched chains built from repeating ethyleneimine units that have been reacted with ethylene oxide to introduce hydroxyethyl groups. The number 1000 points to its average molar ratio of aziridine units giving an idea of its molecular weight and performance profile.
The material was first explored in industrial cleaning and water treatment where its ability to bind oils and dirt stood out. Formulators soon noticed that the same property could be used in personal care to create milder, more efficient cleansing products. As regulatory frameworks for cosmetic polymers matured in the late 1990s suppliers optimized the manufacturing process for skin compatibility and began offering cosmetic grade Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000.
Production starts with polyethyleneimine made by ring-opening polymerization of aziridine. This base polymer is then reacted with controlled amounts of ethylene oxide in the presence of alkaline catalysts. The ethoxylation step caps many of the amine groups with hydroxyethyl chains which softens the polymer’s cationic nature and improves water solubility. The finished ingredient is purified, adjusted for pH and supplied either as a clear liquid or a concentrated solution.
Because of its strong yet gentle cleansing action Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000 is most commonly found in facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removing wipes and scalp scrubs. It can also appear in rinse-off masks, shower gels and hybrid cleanser-toner formulas where formulators want a low-irritation alternative to harsher surfactants.
Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When included at the recommended levels Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000 adds the following benefit to a formulation.
Cleansing: The polymer’s cationic backbone is attracted to negatively charged dirt, makeup particles and excess sebum. Once attached it suspends them in water allowing the impurities to be rinsed away without stripping the skin’s natural lipids. This results in a cleaner feel with less tightness compared with traditional sulfate surfactants, making it useful for sensitive or mature skin.
Who Can Use Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000
Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000 is generally suitable for most skin types including normal, oily, combination, dry and sensitive skin thanks to its mild cleansing action that lifts debris without stripping protective lipids. Those with a severely compromised skin barrier should introduce it cautiously since even gentle cleansers can feel tight on very damaged skin.
The ingredient is synthetic and contains no animal derived raw materials so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. Manufacturers typically source all reagents from petrochemical or plant based origins and no animal by products are required during processing.
Current safety data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000 is used as directed in rinse off or leave on formulas. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any skincare product with their doctor to ensure it fits their personal health profile.
Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000 does not increase photosensitivity and will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also fragrance free and non volatile so it will not interfere with perfume or essential oil components that might be present in the same formula.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000 can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues yet most users will never experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild transient dryness: Rare in leave on toners or micellar waters if a high concentration is used without additional moisturizers
- Temporary redness or stinging: More likely on compromised or freshly exfoliated skin that is already sensitized
- Allergic contact dermatitis: Extremely uncommon but possible in individuals with a known sensitivity to polyethyleneimine or related amine containing polymers
- Eye irritation: May occur if product enters the eyes while cleansing, usually relieved by thorough rinsing with water
If any negative reaction develops discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional for assessment and guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000 is a large, highly water-soluble polymer that does not deposit oily residues on the skin, so it has virtually no ability to block pores. Most formulas that use it are rinse-off cleansers, giving the ingredient little time to sit in follicles. For these reasons it is considered non-comedogenic.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.
Because its backbone is cationic it actually helps lift excess sebum off the skin, which can indirectly reduce pore congestion when used as part of a balanced routine.
Summary
Hydroxyethyl Pei-1000 is a mild cleansing polymer that binds dirt, makeup and excess oil then holds them in water so they rinse away without stripping the skin’s own lipids. It offers a gentler alternative to harsh surfactants while keeping the skin barrier comfortable.
Although not a household name it shows up in an increasing number of micellar waters, facial cleansers and scalp scrubs because formulators like its balance of cleaning power and skin friendliness.
Current data supports its safety for most users with only rare irritation reports, yet patch testing any new product is still a smart precaution to catch personal sensitivities early.