What Is Peg-7/Ppg-2 Pentaerythrityl Tetraacrylate?
Peg-7/Ppg-2 Pentaerythrityl Tetraacrylate is a lab-made compound created by linking small units of polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol to a pentaerythrityl core, then capping the chain with acrylate groups. The raw materials start out as simple alcohols and propylene oxide that are reacted in controlled stages, giving chemists tight control over the final weight and purity. The ingredient first appeared in the early 2000s when formulators were looking for lighter alternatives to heavy synthetic resins. Because it forms a flexible, breathable film after drying, it quickly found a place in cosmetics that need long-lasting performance without a tacky feel. You are most likely to see it in peel-off masks, long-wear foundations, transfer-resistant lip colors, certain nail care products, anti-aging serums that promise a “lifting” effect and some hair styling gels where it helps lock a style in place while keeping hair soft.
Peg-7/Ppg-2 Pentaerythrityl Tetraacrylate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves a single but important purpose in formulas.
Film forming: Once the product is applied and water or solvent evaporates, Peg-7/Ppg-2 Pentaerythrityl Tetraacrylate sets into an invisible film that adheres to skin, lips, or hair. This film keeps pigments and active ingredients where you want them, improves wear time, reduces smudging, provides a smooth finish and can lend a subtle tightening feel that consumers often associate with firming or lifting benefits.
Who Can Use Peg-7/Ppg-2 Pentaerythrityl Tetraacrylate
This film former is considered skin friendly for most skin types, including dry, oily and combination, because it sits on the surface and does not noticeably clog pores or upset the skin’s natural balance. Sensitive skin can usually tolerate it as well since it is non reactive and has no known fragrance or essential oil components that typically trigger irritation. People with a history of acrylic allergies or very reactive skin should remain cautious because the molecule still belongs to the acrylate family, which can be problematic for a small subset of users.
The ingredient is synthesized entirely from petrochemical or plant derived building blocks with no animal sourced materials, so formulations containing it are generally suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Always check the full ingredient list because other components in the same product might not follow the same standard.
No research flags Peg-7/Ppg-2 Pentaerythrityl Tetraacrylate as a concern for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and it is not known to penetrate deeply or enter systemic circulation in meaningful amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare product past a healthcare professional just to be safe.
The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and there is no established link between its use and photosensitivity. It is also odorless, colorless and compatible with most cosmetic actives, making it unlikely to interfere with other steps in a routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Peg-7/Ppg-2 Pentaerythrityl Tetraacrylate can vary from person to person. The following list covers potential issues users could encounter, but these are unlikely when the ingredient is used at the typical concentrations found in cosmetics.
- Mild skin irritation
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to acrylates
- Temporary tight or dry feeling if the formula contains high levels of alcohol or volatile solvents alongside the ingredient
- Eye irritation if product is accidentally rubbed into the eyes before it sets
If any redness, itching or discomfort develops, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Peg-7/Ppg-2 Pentaerythrityl Tetraacrylate earns a low score because its molecules are large, sit on the surface and do not melt into pores the way heavier oils or waxes can. It forms a thin breathable film that is flexible rather than greasy so it is unlikely to trap dead skin or sebum. This makes it generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts. The only time a higher risk could appear is if the ingredient is paired with richly emollient oils in the same product, in which case the overall formula, not the polymer itself, might feel heavy.
Summary
Peg-7/Ppg-2 Pentaerythrityl Tetraacrylate is mainly used as a film former. After the water or solvent in a product evaporates, it creates an invisible layer that keeps makeup, pigments and actives in place, boosts wear time, controls smudging and can give a light tightening sensation. It does all this without adding weight because its backbone is a balanced mix of polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol that dries smooth yet flexible.
While not a household name, it has carved out a niche in long-wear foundations, peel-off masks and transfer-resistant lip colors where staying power matters. Formulators like it because it plays well with other ingredients, has no odor and offers reliable performance at low levels.
Current safety data shows a low risk of irritation or pore clogging for most users. As with any new product, give it a quick patch test before rolling it into your daily routine just to make sure your skin agrees.