What Is Peg/Ppg-14/2 Propylheptyl Ether?
PEG/PPG-14/2 Propylheptyl Ether is a synthetic liquid made by reacting the fatty alcohol 2-propylheptanol with an average of 14 units of ethylene oxide and 2 units of propylene oxide. This reaction attaches water-loving PEG parts and oil-loving PPG parts to the original alcohol, creating a molecule that can mix oil and water with ease.
Chemists began working with similar PEG/PPG blends in the 1970s when the need for gentle yet effective cleansers grew. Over time the specific 14/2 ratio proved useful for skin care because it balances mildness with strong cleansing power, so it found its way into everyday beauty formulas.
Manufacturing starts with plant-derived or petroleum-based 2-propylheptanol. Under controlled heat and pressure, ethylene oxide is added first, followed by propylene oxide. Careful purification removes unreacted material and ensures the final liquid is clear, odorless and consistent.
Because it can pull dirt from the skin and keep watery and oily ingredients blended, PEG/PPG-14/2 Propylheptyl Ether shows up in facial cleansers, wipes, micellar waters, lightweight moisturizers, sunscreens, hair shampoos and some makeup removers.
Peg/Ppg-14/2 Propylheptyl Ether’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient improves both the feel and performance of many formulas.
- Cleansing: Its structure grabs onto oils, makeup and daily grime then lifts them away when you rinse, helping products clean without harsh scrubbing
- Emulsifying: It keeps water-based and oil-based components evenly mixed so creams stay smooth, stable and pleasant to use from the first pump to the last
Who Can Use Peg/Ppg-14/2 Propylheptyl Ether
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by most skin types including normal, oily, combination and even sensitive skin because it is a mild non-ionic cleanser that does not drastically strip natural oils. Very dry or compromised skin might feel a touch of tightness if the formula contains a high level of the ingredient, so richer follow-up moisture may be helpful in those cases.
PEG/PPG-14/2 Propylheptyl Ether is made entirely from plant or petroleum sources and contains no animal derivatives, so it is considered suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. It is also routinely used in cruelty-free lines.
No published research suggests any risk for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding when this ingredient is used topically in wash-off or leave-on products. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before starting a new skincare routine just to be safe.
The ingredient is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it does not increase the likelihood of sunburn. Normal daytime sun protection habits still apply.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical PEG/PPG-14/2 Propylheptyl Ether vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects yet they remain uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in finished products.
- Mild eye irritation if the cleanser reaches the eye area
- Temporary dryness or tightness on very dry or delicate skin when used at high concentration
- Redness or stinging in individuals with a damaged skin barrier or heightened sensitivity
- Allergic contact dermatitis extremely rare but possible in people who develop an allergy to PEGs
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
PEG/PPG-14/2 Propylheptyl Ether is a lightweight non-ionic surfactant that rinses away easily and does not leave a heavy film on the skin. Its molecular structure is too large to settle into pores and it has no oily or waxy residues that typically trigger congestion, which is why it sits low on the comedogenic scale.
Because of this low rating it is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Most formulas use the ingredient at modest levels alongside other non-pore-clogging materials, so its overall contribution to comedogenicity in a finished product is minimal. As always the total formula matters more than any single ingredient.
Summary
PEG/PPG-14/2 Propylheptyl Ether acts primarily as a gentle cleanser and an emulsifier. Its water-loving PEG portion attracts grime and makeup while its oil-loving PPG portion binds to sebum, allowing both to rinse away easily. The same dual nature keeps oil and water blended in creams and lotions so textures stay smooth and stable.
Although not a household name, the ingredient is quietly popular in modern cleansers micellar waters and lightweight moisturizers because it offers reliable performance without harshness. It has a solid safety record with low irritation potential and an extremely low chance of clogging pores.
Overall PEG/PPG-14/2 Propylheptyl Ether is safe for everyday cosmetic use but skin is personal so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains it, especially if you have a history of sensitivities.