What Is Peg-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer?
Peg-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer is a synthetic ingredient created by linking polyethylene glycol units with dodecyl glycol, forming a water-loving and oil-loving chain that easily sits at the border between the two. The number “22” notes the average count of ethylene oxide units attached to each strand, giving the material a balanced weight and a silky feel.
It originated in the late 1990s when formulators were searching for gentler alternatives to older surfactants and stabilizers that could keep products smooth under strong light. By tweaking the ratio of polyethylene glycol to dodecyl glycol chemists produced a polymer that could hold oil and water together while shielding delicate ingredients from UV-driven breakdown.
Production starts with sustainably sourced ethylene oxide and plant-derived dodecanediol. These raw materials pass through controlled ethoxylation and condensation reactors that stitch them into long uniform chains. The finished copolymer is then purified and spray-dried into a free-flowing powder or dispersed into a concentrated liquid for ease of use.
You will spot Peg-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer in lightweight lotions, daily moisturizers, facial masks, sun care products, tinted creams, anti-aging serums and color-protect hair treatments. Its versatility lets brands build clear gels or rich creams that stay stable on the shelf and feel pleasant on skin.
Peg-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this copolymer pulls double duty, improving both product performance and user experience
- Light stabilizer: Helps protect fragile actives like vitamins and botanical extracts from degrading when exposed to sunlight so the product keeps working for longer
- Emulsifying: Bridges oil and water phases to create smooth, uniform creams or lotions that do not split in the jar or feel greasy on the skin
Who Can Use Peg-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by all major skin types, including oily, combination, normal and dry skin. Its lightweight texture and low film-forming nature keep it from feeling heavy on oily skin while its humectant side chain helps prevent tightness on drier complexions. Sensitive skin usually handles it well because it has a very low irritancy profile, though anyone with a known polyethylene glycol allergy should avoid it.
Peg-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer is produced from plant-derived dodecanediol and petroleum-free ethylene oxide so it contains no animal material, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
No data indicate that it poses specific risks during pregnancy or breastfeeding when used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. That said, this is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should show any skincare product to their doctor before use to be safe.
The ingredient does not absorb UV light or make skin more reactive to the sun, so it does not cause photosensitivity. It is also odorless and free of common fragrance allergens, which further broadens its compatibility.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Peg-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer vary from person to person. The effects below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is used at the low levels typical in finished products.
- Mild transient redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals already sensitized to polyethylene glycols
- Temporary eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Minor clogged pores in people extremely prone to congestion when the formula is rich or layered heavily
If any irritation or discomfort occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Peg-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer is highly water soluble and does not form a thick occlusive film so it has little tendency to trap oil or debris inside pores. The dodecyl glycol portion offers mild emollience but the large PEG backbone keeps the molecule lightweight and easily rinsed from skin, which is why it earns a low score of 1.
Because of this low rating most people who are prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing this ingredient without special concern.
Formulas that are already heavy in waxes or butters could still clog pores if layered too generously, but that would be due to the overall blend rather than this polymer itself.
Summary
Peg-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer acts mainly as a light stabilizer and an emulsifier. Its PEG chain attracts water while the dodecyl segment loves oil, letting it sit at the interface and keep creams and lotions from separating. At the same time the molecule scatters and absorbs a bit of UV energy, which helps slow the breakdown of sensitive actives like vitamins.
You will find it in a fair number of mainstream moisturizers, sunscreens and hair treatments but it is not a headline ingredient so it often flies under the radar compared with buzzier actives.
Safety data show a very low risk of irritation or sensitization, making it suitable for most skin types including sensitive and acne prone skin. As with any new product it is wise to patch test first and listen to your skin.