What Is Ppg-35/Ppg-51 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi Crosspolymer?
Ppg-35/Ppg-51 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi Crosspolymer is a man-made ingredient created by linking together propylene glycol units, glycerin that has been modified with propylene oxide, and a ring-shaped molecule called isophorone diisocyanate. When these parts are reacted they form a three-dimensional network that behaves like a soft, flexible plastic once it sets. Because the final material is a large, tangled molecule it stays on the skin surface rather than soaking deeply into it.
The idea of using these kinds of crosspolymers came from the plastics industry in the 1980s where similar networks were prized for their flexibility and resistance to cracking. Cosmetic chemists soon noticed that a lighter version of the same chemistry could improve the feel of creams and gels. Today the ingredient is produced in specialized reactors where temperature, pressure and pH are carefully controlled to guide the isocyanate groups to connect with the propoxylated glycerin and propylene oxide chains. After the reaction is complete any leftover starting material is removed and the thick, neutral product is milled into a fine powder or dispersed in a carrier fluid for easy blending.
You will most often see Ppg-35/Ppg-51 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi Crosspolymer in lightweight moisturizers, oil-free lotions, silicone-free primers, sheet mask essences, anti-aging serums and creamy sunscreens. It helps these formulas stay smooth in the jar and glide evenly across the skin.
Ppg-35/Ppg-51 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi Crosspolymer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This crosspolymer plays two main roles in beauty products
- Plasticiser – Softens and loosens the texture of a formula so it spreads more easily and feels supple rather than stiff
- Skin conditioning agent – Forms a light, non-tacky film on the surface that traps water and leaves skin feeling silky without an oily after-feel
Who Can Use Ppg-35/Ppg-51 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi Crosspolymer
This ingredient is considered friendly to almost every skin type. Its lightweight feel suits oily and combination skin because it does not leave a greasy film, while the softening film it creates can help ease tightness in normal and mildly dry skin. Sensitive or reactive skin generally tolerates it well since it is inert and fragrance free, yet anyone with a known polyurethane or isocyanate allergy should approach with caution.
Ppg-35/Ppg-51 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi Crosspolymer is fully synthetic so it contains no animal-derived matter. For that reason it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians provided the rest of the formula also meets their standards.
No safety warnings single out this polymer for pregnancy or breastfeeding. Current ingredient reviews show no evidence it penetrates deeply or interferes with hormonal pathways. That said this is not medical advice and people who are pregnant or nursing should check any skincare product with their physician to be certain it fits their personal circumstances.
The molecule does not absorb UV light so it does not raise photosensitivity. It also plays well with common actives such as retinoids, niacinamide and vitamin C because it is chemically stable and non-reactive.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Ppg-35/Ppg-51 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi Crosspolymer differ from person to person. The points below outline possible but uncommon issues. When used in a correctly formulated product most people will experience none of these effects.
- Mild redness or stinging in people highly sensitive to polyurethanes
- Contact dermatitis triggered by trace residual isocyanates left from manufacturing
- Transient eye irritation if the product is rubbed into the eye area before it sets
- Very rare clogging of pores in individuals already prone to heavy comedone formation
If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Comedogenic Rating
Comedogenic rating: 1 out of 5.
The molecule is large and stays on the surface, forming a light film that is unlikely to block pores. It does not contain heavy oils or fatty acids that typically spark breakouts. Only in rare cases, usually when used at high levels in very rich formulas, have highly blemish prone users noted minor congestion.
Most people who struggle with acne can comfortably use products containing this polymer, provided the rest of the formula also suits their skin.
Summary
Ppg-35/Ppg-51 Glyceryl Ether/Ipdi Crosspolymer serves mainly as a plasticiser and skin conditioning agent. By linking propylene oxide units with propoxylated glycerin and isophorone diisocyanate it creates a flexible network that loosens the feel of creams and gels while forming a barely there film that locks in moisture and leaves skin silky.
It is not a headline grabbing ingredient yet formulators rely on it to give oil free and silicone free products a smooth glide and soft finish. You will spot it in a growing number of mainstream moisturizers, sunscreens, primers and sheet masks even if it rarely gets top billing on the label.
Current data shows the polymer is low risk, non sensitizing and unlikely to penetrate living skin. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that features this ingredient before full use.