What Is Peg/Ppg-60/11 Glycerin?
Peg/Ppg-60/11 Glycerin is a synthetic ingredient created by linking glycerin to chains of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide. The numbers 60 and 11 tell chemists the average length of those chains, giving the molecule a water-loving end and an oil-loving end. This dual nature helps it mix smoothly into many kinds of cosmetic bases.
Glycerin itself comes from plant oils or animal fats, but once it undergoes the ethoxylation and propoxylation steps in a controlled factory setting the final substance is considered fully man-made. The use of polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivatives in beauty products dates back to the 1950s when formulators began searching for reliable, non-greasy moisturizers that stayed stable over time. Adding propylene glycol units later improved flexibility and texture, paving the way for Peg/Ppg-60/11 Glycerin to appear in modern formulations.
Production starts with purified glycerin. Manufacturers add measured amounts of ethylene oxide then propylene oxide under heat and pressure. After neutralizing residual reactants and filtering out impurities they end up with a clear viscous liquid that dissolves in both water and alcohol, making it easy to incorporate into creams and gels.
You will most often see Peg/Ppg-60/11 Glycerin in facial masks, hydrating toners, lightweight moisturizers, anti-aging serums, after-sun gels, liquid makeup, hair conditioners and cleansing wipes where it quietly pulls in moisture and improves spreadability.
Peg/Ppg-60/11 Glycerin’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient has one key role in personal care products
- Humectant: It attracts water from the air and from deeper skin layers to the surface, increasing immediate hydration and helping formulas feel fresh rather than heavy. By keeping water in the upper layers of skin it can also soften rough patches and support a smoother look which is why formulators lean on it when they want lasting but light moisture.
Who Can Use Peg/Ppg-60/11 Glycerin
Because it is a water-binding humectant with a light skin feel Peg/Ppg-60/11 Glycerin suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well since it is non-fragrant and has a low irritation profile. Extremely dry or compromised skin may need richer occlusives on top because this ingredient alone does not lock in moisture. No specific skin type is considered unsuitable unless an individual already knows they react poorly to polyether ingredients.
The raw material can be sourced from either plant or animal glycerin but most cosmetic suppliers use vegetable-derived glycerin, making finished products potentially suitable for vegans and vegetarians. If this point matters to you check with the brand to confirm their supply chain.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are not known to face extra risk from topical use of Peg/Ppg-60/11 Glycerin. It does not absorb deeply into the bloodstream and has no documented hormone-related effects. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should still show the product label to a healthcare professional to be certain it fits their personal circumstances.
The molecule does not increase photosensitivity so daily sunscreen use remains good practice for overall skin health rather than a requirement created by this ingredient. It can also be layered with most active ingredients such as niacinamide or vitamin C without reported incompatibilities.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from one person to another. The points below outline potential issues that could occur with Peg/Ppg-60/11 Glycerin, yet they are considered uncommon when the finished product is well formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or itching in people who are sensitive to polyethylene glycol derivatives
- Temporary stinging if applied to freshly exfoliated or broken skin
- Rare contact dermatitis in individuals with pre-existing allergies to PEG compounds
If discomfort, persistent irritation or any unexpected reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a qualified health professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0-1 (very low)
Peg/Ppg-60/11 Glycerin is highly water soluble, lightweight and does not form an occlusive film on the skin, making it unlikely to trap oil or debris inside pores. Its large, hydrophilic structure rinses away easily and shows no history of clogging pores in published cosmetic safety reviews. Because it functions mainly as a humectant, it draws water rather than oil to the skin surface, further lowering any risk of comedones.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
As with most PEG derivatives, the finished product’s overall formula matters more than the presence of this single ingredient. Heavy waxes, butters or high amounts of silicones paired with it could still feel occlusive, so judge the product as a whole.
Summary
Peg/Ppg-60/11 Glycerin is a versatile humectant that pulls moisture into the upper layers of skin, boosting softness and improving texture without heaviness. Its dual water-loving and oil-friendly ends let it blend smoothly into a wide range of creams, gels and serums while enhancing spreadability.
You will find it in plenty of mainstream and indie formulas because it is reliable, affordable and easy to work with, yet it rarely makes the front label so many users are unaware of its presence.
Topical use is considered very safe with a low irritation and allergy profile, and it carries a negligible comedogenic rating. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so do a quick patch test when trying a new product that contains Peg/Ppg-60/11 Glycerin to confirm personal compatibility.