What Is Ppg-7-Buteth-10?
Ppg-7-Buteth-10 is a synthetic liquid ingredient created by linking small units of propylene glycol with ethylene oxide, then capping the chain with a single butyl group. Chemically it is known as an oxirane polymer with a monobutyl ether end, which makes it water loving at one end and oil loving at the other. This split personality lets it mix oils, fragrances and water in a single smooth blend.
Laboratories began exploring these kinds of propylene glycol polymers in the 1970s when formulators needed lighter alternatives to heavy oils. By adjusting the chain length and the number of ethylene oxide units they discovered versions that felt silky, rinsed off easily and left no greasy film. Ppg-7-Buteth-10 soon made its way into everyday toiletries because it was mild, versatile and low cost to produce.
Manufacturing starts with propylene oxide, which is reacted with itself under controlled heat and pressure to form a short propylene glycol chain. Ethylene oxide gas is then added to extend the chain and boost water solubility. A butanol molecule is attached at one end to stop the reaction and fine-tune the texture. The clear liquid is filtered, tested for purity and shipped to cosmetic plants.
You will spot Ppg-7-Buteth-10 on ingredient lists for lightweight moisturizers, facial masks, hair conditioners, leave-in serums, body lotions, makeup removers and even some refreshing facial mists. Its ability to condition without heaviness makes it useful in products aimed at normal to oily skin and in shampoos designed for daily use.
Ppg-7-Buteth-10’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasker supports both skin care and hair care formulas in several practical ways
- Hair conditioning: Forms a thin flexible film on strands that smooths the cuticle, helps detangle and adds light shine without weighing hair down
- Skin conditioning: Softens the surface of the skin, improves slip during application and leaves a breathable silky after-feel ideal for daytime creams and lotions
- Solvent: Helps dissolve fragrances, plant extracts and certain active ingredients so they spread evenly through water-based products which prevents separation and keeps formulas clear
Who Can Use Ppg-7-Buteth-10
Ppg-7-Buteth-10 works well for oily, normal and combination skin because it conditions without adding heavy oil. Dry or very dehydrated skin can still use it but will likely need richer emollients alongside for lasting moisture. The ingredient is considered gentle enough for most sensitive skin since it has a low irritation profile and contains no common allergens, though individual tolerance can vary.
The material is made entirely from petrochemical feedstocks so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians; no animal derived substances are used at any point in its manufacture or purification.
Current safety data show no evidence that topical Ppg-7-Buteth-10 harms pregnant or breastfeeding women. Absorption through intact skin is minimal and it is not known to reach breast milk. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should clear every skin or hair product with their healthcare provider just to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it has no known interactions with UV filters, so daytime products containing it can be worn without added risk of sunburn.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Ppg-7-Buteth-10 differ from person to person. The points below describe potential side effects but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels and in properly formulated products.
- Mild stinging or redness on very sensitive or broken skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching or small rash
- Temporary eye irritation if a product accidentally runs into the eyes
- Enhanced absorption of other actives in the formula which may indirectly increase sensitivity to those actives
If any of these effects occur stop using the product immediately and seek guidance from a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Ppg-7-Buteth-10 is highly water soluble, light in texture and leaves no oily residue that could clog pores. Its amphiphilic structure lets it rinse cleanly from skin rather than sitting on the surface like heavier emollients, which is why it earns the lowest possible score.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Formulas that pair it with rich plant oils or waxes could still trigger congestion, so always judge the full ingredient list rather than this single component.
Summary
Ppg-7-Buteth-10 acts as a lightweight hair and skin conditioner and as a solvent. Its split water-loving and oil-loving structure lets it dissolve fragrance or actives, smooth hair cuticles and give skin a silky feel without greasiness.
The ingredient enjoys steady but not headline-grabbing popularity, appearing most often in daily shampoos leave-in sprays and light lotions where a non-heavy finish is valued.
Current data shows it to be low risk for irritation or sensitization when used at normal cosmetic levels. As with any new product, perform a quick patch test first to confirm your personal tolerance.