What Is Peg/Ppg-190/60 Copolymer?
PEG/PPG-190/60 Copolymer is a synthetic block copolymer created by reacting 190 units of ethylene oxide with 60 units of propylene oxide. Both building blocks start life as gases sourced from petroleum or natural gas. When combined in a controlled process called sequential polymerization they form long chains that have alternating water-loving and oil-loving segments. This split personality lets the ingredient interact with both oil and water, a trait that makes it valuable in cleansing products.
Chemists began experimenting with ethylene oxide and propylene oxide polymers in the 1950s while searching for gentler alternatives to traditional soaps. Over time the ratios of the two monomers were fine-tuned to balance mildness, foaming ability and stability. The 190/60 version emerged as a favorite for rinse-off formulas because it produces a rich yet soft lather without stripping skin or hair.
Manufacturing starts with purified propylene oxide, which undergoes ring-opening polymerization to build the initial PPG block. Ethylene oxide is then added in a second step to create the outer PEG sections. The finished liquid is filtered and vacuum-stripped to remove residual monomers then quality-tested for purity and irritation potential.
You will most often spot PEG/PPG-190/60 Copolymer in facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, bubble baths, micellar waters, shaving creams, exfoliating scrubs and clay or sheet masks that need a stable foam. It can also slip into makeup removers and some lightweight moisturizers where extra cleansing or rinse-off slip is desired.
Peg/Ppg-190/60 Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is chosen for formulas that need gentle yet effective cleansing action with a pleasant foam.
- Cleansing: Its dual-natured structure lifts away dirt, excess oil and makeup so they can be rinsed off easily leaving skin and hair feeling fresh but not tight
- Foam boosting: Strengthens and stabilizes bubbles so products create a creamy lather that spreads smoothly and enhances the user experience
Who Can Use Peg/Ppg-190/60 Copolymer
Because it is a mild cleansing and foam boosting agent PEG/PPG-190/60 Copolymer tends to play well with most skin types including oily combination normal and even dry skin that dislikes harsh detergents. Those with very reactive or broken skin barriers such as active eczema or open wounds might feel a bit of stinging when the ingredient is part of a high-foaming formula so patchy or compromised areas should be treated with extra caution.
The material is produced entirely from petrochemical feedstocks and contains no animal-derived substances making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians provided the finished product itself is certified cruelty free.
No data suggest the polymer poses special risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding because its large size keeps it on the skin surface instead of absorbing into the bloodstream. This is general information and not medical advice so anyone expecting or nursing should still clear new skincare choices with a qualified healthcare provider.
PEG/PPG-190/60 Copolymer does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used in morning or evening routines without increasing the chance of sunburn.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical PEG/PPG-190/60 Copolymer differ from one individual to another. The points below outline potential but uncommon side effects. When formulated correctly most people enjoy the ingredient with no issues.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness tingling or a tight feel
- Temporary dryness if the finished cleanser is left on the skin for an extended period
- Contact dermatitis in individuals already sensitized to polyethylene glycol or polypropylene glycol derivatives
- Eye irritation or watering if the lather accidentally gets into the eyes
If any discomfort swelling or persistent irritation develops stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)
PEG/PPG-190/60 Copolymer is highly water soluble and forms lightweight micelles that rinse away cleanly rather than sitting on the skin’s surface. It creates no occlusive film that could trap oil or dead cells in pores, so it earns the lowest possible score.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Because it is non-occlusive, the ingredient will not interfere with other leave-on actives aimed at treating congestion.
Summary
PEG/PPG-190/60 Copolymer works as a mild cleanser and foam booster. Its alternating water-loving and oil-loving segments surround grime and oils then whisk them away while stabilizing a soft cushion of lather that feels pleasant and rinses easily.
It is fairly common in modern face and body washes though not as famous as headline surfactants like sodium cocoyl isethionate. Formulators pick it when they want extra gentleness and creamy foam in a rinse-off product.
Safety profiles and decades of use show a very low risk of irritation for most people. Still, whenever you try a new formula, do a small patch test first to be safe.