Ingredient review

PEG/PPG-35/9 Copolymer

INCI: PEG/PPG-35/9 Copolymer

A gentle, water-soluble polymer that helps hydrate and smooth skin without clogging pores.

beautyskincarehumectant

In plain English

PEG/PPG-35/9 Copolymer is a synthetic ingredient made from polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG). It acts like a sponge, attracting water to the skin's surface and helping other ingredients spread evenly. It's often used to improve the feel of products, making them less sticky and more silky.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

3.8Good
3.8/ 5

Potentially useful with some tradeoffs

The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.

Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.

Source
synthetic
Evidence
moderate
Irritation
low
Clogging risk
low
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

PEG/PPG-35/9 Copolymer is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.

Plain-English read

Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging PEG/PPG-35/9 Copolymer.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.

Score terms in plain English

Irritation risk

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

A synthetic copolymer of PEG and PPG, used as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent.

How it works

It forms a thin, water-attracting film on the skin, which helps retain moisture and improves the texture of the product. It also helps other ingredients spread more evenly.

Pros

Effective humectant

Attracts water to the skin's surface, helping to keep it hydrated without a heavy or greasy feel.

Improves product feel

Makes creams and serums spread more smoothly and reduces stickiness, enhancing the user experience.

Cons and cautions

Synthetic origin

Derived from petroleum-based starting materials, which may be a concern for those seeking natural-only formulations.

Potential tackiness at high levels

In very high concentrations, it can leave a slightly tacky or film-like sensation on the skin.

Best for

  • People with normal to dry skin looking for extra hydration
  • Anyone who wants a smoother, more elegant product texture

Use caution if

  • Those who strictly avoid all synthetic ingredients

Usage tips

Use in a moisturizer or serum after cleansing for best hydration results.
Layer with occlusive ingredients like shea butter or squalane to lock in moisture.

Safety summary

PEG/PPG-35/9 Copolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types.

Research notes

Studies indicate that PEG/PPG copolymers are well-tolerated on skin and effective as humectants. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar PEG/PPG copolymers and found them safe for use in cosmetics.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.5% to 5%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and the European Commission, with no known restrictions at typical use levels.
Common uses
Serums, Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Makeup
Environmental note
As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable and may persist in the environment. However, it is used in low concentrations in rinse-off and leave-on products.

Good to know

  • PEG/PPG copolymers are widely used in cosmetics and are generally considered safe by regulatory bodies.
  • The numbers 35 and 9 refer to the average number of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide units, respectively.

Common questions

What is PEG/PPG-35/9 Copolymer in beauty products?

PEG/PPG-35/9 Copolymer is a synthetic ingredient made from polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG). It acts like a sponge, attracting water to the skin's surface and helping other ingredients spread evenly. It's often used to improve the feel of products, making them less sticky and more silky.

What does PEG/PPG-35/9 Copolymer do in a beauty product?

It forms a thin, water-attracting film on the skin, which helps retain moisture and improves the texture of the product. It also helps other ingredients spread more evenly.

Is PEG/PPG-35/9 Copolymer safe for most people?

PEG/PPG-35/9 Copolymer is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types.

Who should be careful with PEG/PPG-35/9 Copolymer?

Those who strictly avoid all synthetic ingredients

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Safety Assessment of PEG/PPG CopolymersOpenEuropean Commission - CosIng DatabaseOpen

Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.