What Is Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500?
Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500 is a synthetic polymer created by reacting aziridine units with ethylene oxide, giving it a long chain structure that carries both nitrogen and oxygen groups. This blend of groups lets the ingredient interact well with water and oil, making it handy in rinse-off products. The compound was first explored in the late 1990s as chemists searched for gentler alternatives to traditional sulfate detergents. By tweaking the chain length to around 1 500 repeating units, manufacturers found a sweet spot that balances mildness with effective cleansing power.
Production begins with polyethylenimine, a base polymer made by opening aziridine rings. The polymer is then treated with controlled amounts of ethylene oxide, introducing hydroxyethyl groups along the chain. These extra groups soften the molecule’s charge, reduce irritation potential and improve water solubility. The finished material is usually supplied as a clear liquid or paste that blends easily into water-based formulas.
You will most often see Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500 in facial cleansers, micellar waters, foaming masks, shampoo-like scalp scrubs and makeup removing wipes. Its mild nature makes it popular in products aimed at sensitive skin or daily use.
Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare and haircare formulas Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500 plays a single but important role.
Cleansing: The polymer lifts away dirt, oil and leftover makeup while keeping the skin’s surface comfortable. Its large size means it does not penetrate deeply, so it cleans without stripping the natural barrier. Formulators appreciate that it generates a light, creamy lather and works well in low-sulfate or sulfate-free systems, helping products feel gentle yet still refreshingly effective.
Who Can Use Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500
Because it is a mild, water-soluble cleanser Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500 suits most skin types, including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Its large molecular size keeps it on the surface so it cleans without disturbing the skin barrier, making it a friendly option for those who flush or sting easily. The only group that may need extra caution is anyone with a known allergy to polyethylenimine derivatives or other polyethyleneamine compounds as cross-sensitivity is possible.
The ingredient is produced entirely through synthetic chemistry and contains no animal-derived substances, so it is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. Cruelty-free status depends on the finished brand’s testing policies rather than the ingredient itself.
Current safety data show no special risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding because topical absorption is minimal. Still, this is not medical advice, and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any skincare product with their healthcare provider to be on the safe side.
Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500 does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, and it has no known interference with common actives such as vitamin C, retinoids or niacinamide. It can also be used on color-treated hair without fading dyes.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to topical Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500 vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild skin redness or stinging
- Transient dryness or tightness if used in very high concentrations
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitized to polyethyleneamine compounds
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes before rinsing
- Build-up on hair shafts leading to dullness when formulas are not rinsed thoroughly
If you notice any discomfort, redness or swelling while using a product that contains Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500 stop use right away and seek advice from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 – Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500 is a large, highly water-soluble polymer that stays on the skin surface then rinses away, so it has a very low tendency to collect inside pores or mix with sebum. Its single job in a formula is to cleanse, not leave an occlusive film, which keeps the clogging risk minimal. Because most products containing it are wash-off, any residue is short-lived and unlikely to spark breakouts.
Suitable for acne-prone skin, as the ingredient itself rarely contributes to comedones.
One extra note: if a formula pairs Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500 with heavy oils or butters, the overall product could still feel rich on the skin, but that would stem from the other ingredients rather than the polymer.
Summary
Hydroxyethyl Pei-1500 is used as a mild cleansing agent that lifts dirt, oil and makeup without stripping the barrier. Its long chain sprinkled with hydroxyethyl groups allows it to attract both water and oil, create a soft lather and rinse away cleanly.
You will not find it in every aisle the way you see traditional surfactants, yet its presence is growing in sensitive skin cleansers, micellar waters and sulfate-free shampoos as brands hunt for gentler options.
Current research and real-world use point to a high safety margin with low irritation and virtually no comedogenicity, but as with any new skincare ingredient you should patch test a small area first just to be sure your skin agrees with it.