What Is Ppg-3 Hydroxyethyl Soyamide?
Ppg-3 Hydroxyethyl Soyamide is a plant-derived ingredient made from soybean fatty acids that have been reacted with hydroxyethyl groups and a short chain of propylene oxide. The result is an amide that combines the skin-friendly profile of natural oils with the performance of modern synthetic surfactants. Introduced to cosmetic labs in the early 2000s as part of the industry’s shift toward milder alternatives to traditional sulfates, it quickly gained attention for its gentle cleansing power and its ability to stabilize emulsions.
To create it, refined soybean oil is first split into free fatty acids. These acids undergo amidation with ethanolamine, then three units of propylene oxide are added. This propoxylation step boosts the molecule’s water solubility and surface activity, giving formulators a versatile ingredient that works well in both water-based and oil-rich systems.
You will most often spot Ppg-3 Hydroxyethyl Soyamide in cleansers like facial washes, body washes and shampoos, but it also shows up in micellar waters, makeup removers, lightweight lotions and sprayable creams where a stable oil-in-water texture is needed.
Ppg-3 Hydroxyethyl Soyamide’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators reach for this soy-based amide because it offers two key functions that improve product performance and the user experience.
- Cleansing: Its surfactant nature lowers surface tension between oil, dirt and water so impurities lift away easily, allowing for a thorough yet mild cleanse that does not leave skin feeling stripped
- Emulsifying: It keeps oil and water phases blended over time, preventing separation in lotions or washes which means a smooth texture and consistent delivery of active ingredients from the first pump to the last
Who Can Use Ppg-3 Hydroxyethyl Soyamide
This soy-based surfactant is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. People with very sensitive or compromised skin usually tolerate it well since it lacks harsh sulfates, though any surfactant can cause tightness if used in very high amounts.
Because it is sourced from soybeans and contains no animal-derived additives, it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Manufacturers often highlight it in plant-based or cruelty-free formulas.
Current safety reviews have not flagged Ppg-3 Hydroxyethyl Soyamide as a concern for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run all skincare products past their doctor to be safe.
The ingredient is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also plays well with most other common skincare actives, which is why you will find it in a wide range of cleansers and lightweight lotions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Ppg-3 Hydroxyethyl Soyamide differ from person to person. The issues listed below are possible but unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is used at standard cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin irritation or redness especially on very sensitive skin when left on for extended periods
- Eye stinging if cleanser residue gets into the eyes
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with a rare sensitivity to soy proteins or amide structures
- Temporary dryness or tightness if formulated alongside other strong surfactants or if used too frequently
If you experience any uncomfortable reaction stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Ppg-3 Hydroxyethyl Soyamide is largely water soluble and designed to rinse away, which means it does not sit on the skin long enough to trap oil or debris inside pores. Its molecular structure resembles that of other low-residue, non-occlusive surfactants so the likelihood of clogging pores is very low. For that reason it receives a score of 1 rather than 0, simply acknowledging that any surfactant could in theory cause issues for a very small number of users.
Given the minimal risk, this ingredient is generally considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Because it is most often used in wash-off products, any residual film left behind is negligible, which further reduces comedogenic concerns.
Summary
Ppg-3 Hydroxyethyl Soyamide is a soy-derived surfactant that cleanses by lifting oil and dirt from the skin while also acting as an emulsifier to keep oil and water perfectly blended. The propoxylated hydroxyethyl groups boost water solubility, allowing it to perform these dual roles effectively without harshness.
Although not as famous as sulfate surfactants or trendy coconut cleansers, it has carved out a steady niche in gentle face washes, body washes and lightweight lotions where formulators want mildness plus reliable emulsion stability.
Safety reviews show it to be low-irritation with a very low comedogenic score, suitable for most skin types including sensitive and acne-prone. As with any new skincare ingredient, it is smart to run a quick patch test when trying a product that contains it, just to be on the safe side.