What Is Ppg-14 Laureth-60 Isophoryl Dicarbamate?
Ppg-14 Laureth-60 Isophoryl Dicarbamate is a lab-made ingredient created by joining small building blocks of propylene glycol and ethylene oxide with a lauryl (coconut or palm-derived) fatty chain, then linking the resulting polymer to isophorone diisocyanate. The outcome is a large, flexible molecule that behaves like a lightweight liquid resin. It first appeared in the 1990s as chemists searched for alternatives to heavy waxes that could still give products a pleasing thickness. Production happens in closed reactors where the propylene glycol and ethylene oxide blocks are added stepwise, followed by the fatty chain and finally the isophorone bridge, then the mixture is purified and blended into a clear fluid. Because it is stable in both water and oil, you will mainly find this ingredient in lotions, creams, gel masks, leave-on conditioners, styling products and silky serums that aim for a smooth, cushioned feel without greasiness.
Ppg-14 Laureth-60 Isophoryl Dicarbamate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient plays a single but important role in personal care formulas.
As a viscosity controlling agent, it fine-tunes how thick or thin a product feels, helping chemists create lotions that glide easily, gels that stay put or sprays that are neither runny nor sticky. By setting the right texture, it improves spreadability, keeps the formula from separating during shelf life and makes the user experience more pleasant.
Who Can Use Ppg-14 Laureth-60 Isophoryl Dicarbamate
This polymer is lightweight and non greasy, making it generally suitable for oily, combination, normal and even sensitive skin because it does not clog pores or leave a heavy residue. Extremely dry or compromised skin may want richer textures since this ingredient itself does not add meaningful moisturising benefits.
Ppg-14 Laureth-60 Isophoryl Dicarbamate is made entirely from synthetic feedstocks with no animal derived components so it is appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians. As always, cruelty free status depends on the finished brand’s policies rather than the molecule itself.
The molecule is large and stays mainly on the skin surface which means systemic absorption is expected to be negligible. Current safety reviews have not flagged special concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, yet this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should show their healthcare provider the full ingredient list of any product they plan to use to be on the safe side.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity so there is no special sun care warning beyond regular good sunscreen habits. It is also fragrance free and carries no known hormonal activity, making it a low risk choice for most users.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Ppg-14 Laureth-60 Isophoryl Dicarbamate can vary. The points below outline potential side effects which are uncommon when the ingredient is used at the low percentages found in cosmetics.
- Mild skin irritation such as temporary redness or itching, most often in those with very reactive skin
- Contact dermatitis in rare cases of true allergy to the polymer or trace manufacturing residues
- Eye irritation if a product containing the ingredient is rubbed directly into the eyes
- Follicular congestion if used in very high leave on concentrations on acne prone skin, although the risk is considered low
If any discomfort, swelling or rash occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Ppg-14 Laureth-60 Isophoryl Dicarbamate is a large synthetic polymer that sits on the surface without forming a heavy, greasy film. It does not contain fatty acids known for clogging pores and its primary job is to manage thickness rather than condition the skin, which keeps its occlusive potential very low. For most people prone to breakouts this ingredient is considered safe, although the final formula and concentration always matter. Extremely high levels in leave-on products might still cause congestion in very sensitive or acneic skin, but such use levels are uncommon.
Summary
Ppg-14 Laureth-60 Isophoryl Dicarbamate is mainly a viscosity controller, smoothing out the flow of lotions, gels, serums and sprays so they feel elegant and stay stable on the shelf. It achieves this by acting like a flexible liquid resin that thickens water and oil phases without adding weight or greasiness.
The ingredient is a niche pick rather than a mainstream star, appearing most often in mid to high-end formulations that aim for a silky, cushiony texture. Its safety profile is solid, with low irritation and comedogenic risks at typical use levels. Even so, skin is personal so it is smart to patch test any new product containing this polymer before full-face or widespread use.