What Is Peg-15/Ppg-70 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi/Dmpa Crosspolymer?
Peg-15/Ppg-70 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi/Dmpa Crosspolymer is a lab made polymer created by linking together three building blocks: a blend of polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol attached to glycerin, a ring shaped molecule called isophorone diisocyanate, and a small amine named dimethylaminopropylamine. When these pieces react they form a three-dimensional net that stays stable in both water based and oil based formulas. Because every part of this ingredient is produced in controlled factory settings it is classed as synthetic, not plant or animal derived.
Chemists first looked at this crosspolymer in the early 2000s when powder makeup started moving toward finer, silkier textures. As pigments became smaller they tended to clump, so brands needed a helper that could keep particles free flowing without feeling heavy. By crosslinking the glyceryl ether with IPDI and DMPA they ended up with a lightweight, touch-friendly powder additive that solved the problem.
Manufacturing begins with the glycerin based PEG-PPG chain, which is reacted in a vessel with IPDI under carefully controlled heat. DMPA is then added to cap off any open sites, locking the structure into place. After purification and drying the finished polymer looks like a soft, white powder that disperses easily in either water or oil phases.
You will most often spot Peg-15/Ppg-70 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi/Dmpa Crosspolymer in products that rely on a smooth, non-clumping finish: loose and pressed powders, bronzers, blushes, highlighters, setting powders, dry shampoo, clay or charcoal masks, some stick foundations, anhydrous balms and solid sunscreens. It can also show up in creamy formulas that contain a lot of minerals or starches where it keeps the mix from turning pasty over time.
Peg-15/Ppg-70 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi/Dmpa Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is prized for a single key role in cosmetic chemistry: it works as an anticaking agent. By coating individual pigment or mineral particles the crosspolymer lowers their tendency to stick together, which keeps powders airy and easy to spread. In turn your makeup goes on more evenly, feels smoother on the skin and stays free from hard lumps while sitting on your shelf.
Who Can Use Peg-15/Ppg-70 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi/Dmpa Crosspolymer
This anticaking polymer is considered gentle and lightweight, so it is generally suitable for all skin types including oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin. Because it does not add grease or clog pores it can be a good choice for those prone to breakouts, while its silky feel keeps dryness from being accentuated on flakier complexions.
The ingredient is fully synthetic with no animal derived raw materials, making it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
No data points to issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used as directed in cosmetics. It sits on the surface of the skin, shows very low absorption and is used in tiny percentages. This is not medical advice; anyone who is expecting or nursing should run their product choices past a qualified health professional to be safe.
Peg-15/Ppg-70 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi/Dmpa Crosspolymer does not increase sensitivity to sunlight, so everyday sun exposure precautions remain unchanged.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to the topical use of Peg-15/Ppg-70 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi/Dmpa Crosspolymer can vary from person to person. The points below outline possible, not probable, side effects. When the ingredient is included at the levels normally found in finished products most users experience no problems.
- Mild skin redness or itching
- Transient stinging on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitized to one of the polymer’s building blocks
- Eye irritation if loose powder gets into the eyes during application
- Temporary throat or nasal irritation if large amounts of airborne powder are inhaled
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 – very low potential to clog pores
This score is based on the molecule’s large, cross-linked structure and its use at tiny levels. It sits on the surface, does not melt into skin oils and is easily washed off, so there is little chance it will block follicles. It also lacks heavy waxes or fats that tend to be pore cloggers.
Because of the low rating it is generally considered suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
No data suggests that it increases oiliness or encourages bacterial growth, so its presence in a formula should not change how likely a product is to cause comedones.
Summary
Peg-15/Ppg-70 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi/Dmpa Crosspolymer is used mainly as an anticaking agent. By wrapping pigments and minerals in a light coating it reduces static and friction, keeps particles from clumping and helps powders glide on evenly. Its three-dimensional network also stabilises both waterless and emulsified systems, giving formulators flexibility.
The ingredient is a bit of a niche player seen most often in modern, silky loose or pressed powders rather than across every product category. Brands that focus on ultra-fine textures and long shelf life value its performance, while others stick with more familiar fillers like silica or talc.
Safety reviews and current usage show a very low risk profile. It is non-sensitising for most people, non-phototoxic and has minimal absorption. That said everyone’s skin is unique, so it is smart to do a quick patch test when trying any new product that contains this polymer.