What Is Pei-14 Peg-24/Ppg-16 Copolymer?
Pei-14 Peg-24/Ppg-16 Copolymer is a synthetic ingredient created in the lab by linking three building blocks: polyethyleneimine (PEI-14), polyethylene glycol (PEG) with an average of 24 repeating ethylene oxide units, and polypropylene glycol (PPG) with about 16 repeating propylene oxide units. The result is a block copolymer, meaning the three components are joined in large segments rather than mixed randomly. This structure gives the material useful surface-modifying properties that help powders flow smoothly and resist clumping.
Chemists began exploring block copolymers for personal care in the late twentieth century when advances in polymer science made it possible to tailor molecular size and balance between water-loving and oil-loving sections. The PEI-PEG-PPG combination proved especially handy for stabilizing powders used in color cosmetics and skincare. Today manufacturers produce the copolymer by sequentially reacting PEI with controlled amounts of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide under heat and pressure, then purifying the mixture to remove unreacted material.
You will most often encounter Pei-14 Peg-24/Ppg-16 Copolymer in loose or pressed powders, dry shampoos, setting sprays, face masks in powder form, and powdered exfoliants where keeping particles free flowing is important. It may also appear in some talc-free baby powders and mineral makeup to maintain a silky texture.
Pei-14 Peg-24/Ppg-16 Copolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Its main role in cosmetics is straightforward yet valuable: it acts as an anticaking agent. By coating individual powder particles, the copolymer reduces moisture absorption and static buildup, preventing clumps and improving flow. This helps products apply more evenly, feel smoother on the skin and maintain shelf stability even in humid environments.
Who Can Use Pei-14 Peg-24/Ppg-16 Copolymer
This copolymer is considered gentle and non-comedogenic so it suits most skin types including dry skin, oily skin and combination skin. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well because it sits on the surface and is not reactive, though people with a known allergy to polyethylene glycol or similar polymers may want to steer clear.
The ingredient is synthetic and contains no animal-derived raw materials so it is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
No warnings exist for topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full product list to a healthcare professional before use just to be sure.
Pei-14 Peg-24/Ppg-16 Copolymer does not make skin more sensitive to the sun, so it does not raise the risk of sunburn or photosensitivity.
Because it is almost always used in low amounts and rinses or brushes off easily, it rarely interferes with other cosmetic ingredients.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Pei-14 Peg-24/Ppg-16 Copolymer vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions, yet these are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in finished products.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging
- Itchiness or dryness for those with very reactive skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals already sensitized to PEG or PPG compounds
- Eye irritation if loose powder containing the ingredient gets into the eyes
If any of these issues occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 out of 5
Pei-14 Peg-24/Ppg-16 Copolymer is a large water-dispersible polymer that does not contain heavy oils or fatty acids, and it stays mostly on the surface where it simply coats powder particles. Because it does not migrate into pores or form an occlusive film, it is considered non-comedogenic.
Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.
Its use level in finished formulas is typically below 2 percent, further lowering any risk of pore blockage.
Summary
Pei-14 Peg-24/Ppg-16 Copolymer’s primary job is to keep powdered products free flowing and clump-free. It achieves this by forming an ultra-thin coating on each particle that repels moisture, reduces static and improves slip so powders feel smooth and apply evenly.
The ingredient is not a household name, but it is quietly popular among formulators of loose and pressed powders, dry shampoos and mineral makeup because it delivers reliable performance at low cost without changing texture or finish.
Overall safety is high with only rare reports of irritation in people already sensitive to PEG or PPG derivatives. As with any new cosmetic, doing a small patch test before full use is a smart precaution.