What Is Ppg-38 Steareth-6?
Ppg-38 Steareth-6 is the trade name for polyoxypropylene(38) polyoxyethylene(6) stearyl ether, a synthetic ingredient created by joining propylene oxide, ethylene oxide and stearyl alcohol in a controlled reaction. The numbers 38 and 6 show the average amounts of propylene oxide and ethylene oxide units attached to the fatty alcohol backbone. This balance of water-loving and oil-loving parts lets the molecule mix oil and water with ease.
The first ethers of this type appeared in the mid-20th century when chemists were searching for gentler cleansers than traditional soaps. Over time formulators noticed that adding specific ratios of propylene and ethylene oxide produced ingredients that felt silky, rinsed cleanly and left skin soft, leading to their adoption in modern skin care.
Production starts with plant-derived or synthetic stearyl alcohol. Propylene oxide is added under heat and pressure to reach an average of 38 units, then ethylene oxide is introduced to tack on about six units. Each step is monitored to keep impurities low and ensure batch-to-batch consistency.
You will most often find Ppg-38 Steareth-6 in rinse-off cleansers, micellar waters, facial masks, lightweight moisturizers and refreshing toners. Its mildness and dual action as a cleanser and skin conditioner make it popular in products aimed at sensitive, dry or combination skin.
Ppg-38 Steareth-6’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this multi-tasker delivers two main benefits:
- Skin conditioning – forms a soft, breathable film that helps hold moisture on the skin surface so it feels smooth and supple after rinsing
- Cleansing – lifts away dirt, makeup and excess oil without harsh scrubbing, leaving skin fresh yet comfortable
Who Can Use Ppg-38 Steareth-6
This ingredient is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive, dry, combination and mature skin, thanks to its mild cleansing action and light conditioning film. Very oily or acne-prone complexions that prefer completely oil-free formulas might find richer products containing it feel too emollient, though the ingredient itself is not considered heavy.
Ppg-38 Steareth-6 is produced from stearyl alcohol that can be sourced from plants or made synthetically, and no animal-derived components are required during manufacturing. For that reason it is widely accepted as suitable for vegans and vegetarians, but final product labels should still be checked in case other animal ingredients are present.
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has assessed similar compounds as safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding because they remain on the outer skin layers and are not expected to reach the bloodstream. That said this is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review every skincare product with a qualified healthcare provider before use.
The molecule does not absorb UV light and does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it does not increase the risk of photosensitivity. It may even help buffer the potential sting of stronger actives by forming a light protective film, making it a versatile option for people layering multiple products.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Ppg-38 Steareth-6 vary from person to person. The effects below are possible yet unlikely when the ingredient is used at standard cosmetic levels, and most people will never experience them.
- Mild transient redness or stinging – can occur on very reactive skin, usually subsides quickly after rinsing
- Contact dermatitis – rare allergic reaction presenting as itching or small bumps, more common in individuals already sensitised to polyoxyethylene compounds
- Eye irritation – may cause watering or a slight burn if the formula accidentally gets into the eyes, especially in higher-foaming cleansers
- Increased dryness – over-use of a strong rinse-off product containing high levels of this surfactant could leave very dry skin feeling tight
- Enhanced penetration of other actives – by disturbing the outer lipid layer on compromised skin it can allow stronger ingredients to enter more deeply, potentially heightening their side effects
If any irritation or discomfort develops while using Ppg-38 Steareth-6 or a product that contains it stop use promptly and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Ppg-38 Steareth-6 is a highly water-soluble surfactant that rinses off cleanly, so it rarely lingers on the skin or blocks pores. The molecule is lightweight and lacks the dense oils or waxes that typically trap sebum, making its pore-clogging potential very low.
People who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts usually tolerate this ingredient well, especially when it appears in rinse-off products.
The finished formula still matters. If a product also contains heavy butters or thick silicones the overall comedogenicity could rise even though Ppg-38 Steareth-6 itself scores low.
Summary
Ppg-38 Steareth-6 works as both a cleanser and a skin conditioner. Its oil-loving propylene units dissolve makeup and sebum while the water-loving ethylene units let the grime rinse away, leaving behind a barely there film that helps skin feel soft and comfortable.
You will mostly find it in everyday cleansers, micellar waters, sheet masks and lightweight lotions, chosen by formulators who want mildness without sacrificing a fresh afterfeel. It is useful rather than headline-grabbing, so it flies under the radar compared with trendier actives.
Overall it is considered safe for regular use with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. Still, it is wise to patch test any new product containing Ppg-38 Steareth-6 to be sure your skin agrees with it.