Ppg-17 Dioleate: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Ppg-17 Dioleate?

Ppg-17 Dioleate is a liquid ingredient made by joining a mid-sized polypropylene glycol chain (PPG-17) with two units of oleic acid, a fatty acid that naturally occurs in many vegetable oils such as olive, sunflower and canola. The result is a soft, slightly oily substance that spreads easily on skin and mixes well with both oils and water-based formulas.

Chemists first began blending polypropylene glycols with fatty acids in the 1970s when cosmetic brands looked for lighter, less greasy alternatives to mineral oil. The combination produced versatile emollients that felt silky yet washed off without heavy residue. Over time Ppg-17 Dioleate earned a spot in routine personal-care products thanks to its balanced feel and skin-friendly profile.

The ingredient is manufactured through an esterification process: purified PPG-17 is reacted with oleic acid under controlled heat and vacuum. Any remaining acid is neutralized then the mixture is filtered to remove impurities. The final material is clear to pale yellow and has a mild odor that rarely interferes with fragrance.

You will most often see Ppg-17 Dioleate in cleansers, bath oils, body lotions, facial moisturizers, makeup removers, hair conditioners, massage oils, tinted creams and specialty masks aimed at softness and suppleness.

Ppg-17 Dioleate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient adds a smooth touch and helps formulas feel more comforting on skin and hair.

  • Skin Conditioning: Forms a light film that helps trap moisture so skin stays hydrated longer, leaving it feeling soft and refreshed
  • Emollient: Fills in tiny gaps on the skin surface which reduces roughness, boosts slip for easier spreadability and gives products a silky after-feel without heaviness

Who Can Use Ppg-17 Dioleate

Ppg-17 Dioleate is generally well tolerated by most skin types, from dry and mature to normal and combination. Its light texture gives enough lubrication for parched skin without leaving an oil slick that might bother those who lean oily. Extremely acne-prone or very sensitive complexions could notice a slight increase in surface oil feel, so lightweight application formats like gels or cleansing milks are usually preferred for those groups.

The ingredient is synthesized entirely from vegetable-derived oleic acid and petroleum-free polypropylene glycol, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal derivatives or animal testing are required in its standard production.

Current data show no known issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Ppg-17 Dioleate is used in topical cosmetics. That said this content is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss all skincare products with a qualified healthcare provider to be sure they meet personal safety needs.

Ppg-17 Dioleate does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so extra sun precautions beyond broad-spectrum sunscreen are not necessary. It is also fragrance-free by nature which lowers the chance of scent-related irritation. The ingredient is soluble in both oils and mild surfactants, allowing formulators to keep final concentrations low and user friendly.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to any cosmetic ingredient vary between individuals. The effects listed below are possible yet uncommon when Ppg-17 Dioleate is correctly formulated in a finished product.

  • Mild skin redness or warmth in very sensitive users
  • Transient stinging if applied to freshly exfoliated or broken skin
  • Clogged pores when used in heavy concentrations on acne-prone areas
  • Contact dermatitis in the rare event of an individual allergy

If irritation or any unwanted reaction develops discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5

Ppg-17 Dioleate is a lightweight ester that spreads thinly and rinses away more readily than heavier plant oils or butters. Its mid-sized molecular structure does not readily lodge inside pores which keeps the chance of blockage low. Formulas usually include it at modest levels, further reducing any pore-clogging risk.

Because the rating sits near the bottom of the scale the ingredient is generally acceptable for those prone to acne or breakouts, especially when used in rinse-off cleansers or light lotions.

If blended alongside high-comedogenic oils or waxes the overall product could still trigger congestion, so the full ingredient list always matters.

Summary

Ppg-17 Dioleate mainly conditions skin and works as an emollient. It lays down a thin breathable layer that smooths rough spots and locks in moisture while giving products a silky glide without greasiness. This ease of spread makes it a versatile helper in cleansers, lotions, makeup removers and even hair care.

The ester is moderately popular: not a headline ingredient yet trusted by formulators who want a softer feel than mineral oil and a cleaner rinse than many plant oils. You will spot it more often in mid-priced body washes and moisturizers than in trend-driven serums.

Safety data show it is low irritation, vegan friendly and non-sensitizing for the vast majority of users. Still every skin is unique so patch testing any new product that contains Ppg-17 Dioleate is a smart precaution.

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