What Is Peg/Ppg-12/35 Copolymer?
Peg/Ppg-12/35 Copolymer is a synthetic blend of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) created by reacting ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, the building blocks of oxirane and methyl-substituted oxirane. The ratio of 12 ethylene oxide units to 35 propylene oxide units gives the molecule a balanced mix of water-loving and oil-loving parts, which is why it behaves so well as a surfactant and solvent.
Nonionic surfactants like this copolymer began appearing in cosmetics in the 1950s when chemists were searching for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps. Over time its mildness, stability and versatility earned it a regular spot in modern formulations.
Manufacturers make the ingredient through controlled ring-opening polymerization, carefully adding ethylene oxide then propylene oxide to a starter molecule until the desired chain lengths are reached. The finished liquid or waxy solid is purified, tested for residual impurities and shipped to cosmetic labs.
You will most often find Peg/Ppg-12/35 Copolymer in facial cleansers, micellar waters, makeup removers, body washes, shampoos, lightweight lotions, sheet masks, hydrating serums and exfoliating gels where it helps formulas spread evenly and rinse cleanly.
Peg/Ppg-12/35 Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient earns its place on a label by doing more than one job at once.
- Cleansing: Its surfactant nature lifts away dirt, oil and makeup without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier which helps leave skin feeling soft and comfortable after rinsing
- Solvent: It dissolves oily ingredients, pigments and active compounds so the final product stays uniform and clear improving texture and stability
Who Can Use Peg/Ppg-12/35 Copolymer
Because it is a mild nonionic surfactant with balanced water and oil affinity Peg/Ppg-12/35 Copolymer is generally well tolerated by all skin types including sensitive oily dry and combination. Very dry or compromised skin could occasionally feel a little tight if the formula is highly concentrated in cleansing agents but this is uncommon in leave-on products.
The ingredient is produced synthetically from petrochemical feedstocks not animal derived materials so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian preferences.
No research indicates that topical use poses a risk during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of their skincare products to a qualified health professional before use just to be safe.
Peg/Ppg-12/35 Copolymer does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitising. It is also compatible with most other cosmetic ingredients including exfoliating acids antioxidants and retinoids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can vary between individuals. The following points outline potential side effects tied to Peg/Ppg-12/35 Copolymer but they are uncommon when a product is well formulated and used as directed.
- Mild transient skin irritation or redness
- Dryness or tightness if used in a high-foaming cleanser on very dry skin
- Stinging if the product accidentally contacts the eyes
- Rare cases of contact dermatitis in people already sensitised to polyethylene glycol type compounds
If you notice any of these issues stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non comedogenic)
Peg/Ppg-12/35 Copolymer is fully water soluble and rinses off without leaving a residue that could block pores. It lacks fatty acids or heavy oils so it does not feed acne bacteria or create a film on the skin. As a result it sits at the bottom of the clogging scale.
This low score means the ingredient is normally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Because it is most often used in rinse-off cleansers its pore-clogging potential is even lower than many leave-on ingredients.
Summary
Peg/Ppg-12/35 Copolymer acts as a mild cleanser and a handy solvent. Its surfactant part loosens dirt oil and makeup so they wash away while its solvent part keeps formulas stable smooth and evenly blended.
You will spot it in plenty of everyday washes and makeup removers though it is rarely highlighted in marketing copy.
History of safe use and safety testing point to a low risk of irritation or breakouts. Even so it is wise to patch test any new product that includes it to be sure your skin stays happy.