Ingredient review

PPG-14 Laureth-60 Hexyl Dicarbamate

INCI: PPG-14 LAURETH-60 HEXYL DICARBAMATE

A synthetic film-former that helps products spread smoothly and feel lightweight, but offers no active skincare benefits.

beautyskincarefilm-former

In plain English

This is a man-made ingredient that helps skincare products glide on your skin and feel silky rather than sticky. It forms a very thin, flexible film on the skin's surface, which can also help other ingredients stay put longer. Think of it like a gentle, invisible net that holds everything together without clogging pores.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

3.5Good
3.5/ 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

PPG-14 Laureth-60 Hexyl Dicarbamate 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 PPG-14 Laureth-60 Hexyl Dicarbamate.
  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 polymer created by combining propylene glycol, lauryl alcohol, and hexyl dicarbamate. It belongs to a family of ingredients called film-formers, which are common in cosmetics to improve texture and wear.

How it works

When applied, it spreads into a thin, even layer on the skin. This layer helps reduce friction (making the product feel smoother) and can temporarily hold moisture close to the skin. It also helps other ingredients like sunscreen or pigments stay evenly distributed and last longer.

Pros

Smooth texture

Creates a silky, non-sticky feel on the skin, making products more pleasant to apply.

Improves wear

Helps sunscreen and makeup stay in place longer, reducing the need for reapplication.

Cons and cautions

No active benefits

Does not hydrate, brighten, or treat skin concerns on its own—it's purely a texture enhancer.

Potential tackiness

In high concentrations, it can leave a slightly sticky or heavy feel, especially in humid conditions.

Best for

  • People who prefer lightweight, non-greasy textures
  • Those looking for improved makeup or sunscreen wear

Use caution if

  • Anyone seeking active skincare benefits like hydration or anti-aging from this ingredient alone

Usage tips

Use in combination with humectants like glycerin for balanced hydration.
Apply after water-based serums and before oils for best layering.
Check product labels for concentration—lower amounts are ideal for daily use.

Safety summary

Generally considered safe for topical use. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No known serious side effects when used as directed.

Research notes

Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on this ingredient, but similar film-forming polymers have been evaluated by the CIR and found safe. Most evidence comes from cosmetic formulation science rather than clinical trials.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.1% to 5%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed similar polymers and found them safe at typical use levels.
Common uses
Serums, Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Makeup
Environmental note
As a synthetic polymer, it is not biodegradable and may accumulate in the environment. However, it is used in very small amounts per product.

Good to know

  • This ingredient is often used in sunscreens to improve water resistance.
  • It is considered safe by major regulatory bodies when used within typical concentrations.

Common questions

What is PPG-14 Laureth-60 Hexyl Dicarbamate in beauty products?

This is a man-made ingredient that helps skincare products glide on your skin and feel silky rather than sticky. It forms a very thin, flexible film on the skin's surface, which can also help other ingredients stay put longer. Think of it like a gentle, invisible net that holds everything together without clogging pores.

What does PPG-14 Laureth-60 Hexyl Dicarbamate do in a beauty product?

When applied, it spreads into a thin, even layer on the skin. This layer helps reduce friction (making the product feel smoother) and can temporarily hold moisture close to the skin. It also helps other ingredients like sunscreen or pigments stay evenly distributed and last longer.

Is PPG-14 Laureth-60 Hexyl Dicarbamate safe for most people?

Generally considered safe for topical use. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No known serious side effects when used as directed.

Who should be careful with PPG-14 Laureth-60 Hexyl Dicarbamate?

Anyone seeking active skincare benefits like hydration or anti-aging from this ingredient alone

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) - Safety of Film-Forming PolymersOpenINCI Database - PPG-14 Laureth-60 Hexyl DicarbamateOpenEuropean Chemicals Agency (ECHA) - Substance InformationOpen

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.