Ingredient review

PPG-14 Palmeth-60 Hexyl Dicarbamate

INCI: PPG-14 PALMETH-60 HEXYL DICARBAMATE

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

beautyskincarefilm-former

In plain English

This is a man-made ingredient that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin or hair. It helps lotions and creams glide on easily and leaves a soft, non-greasy feel. Think of it like a gentle, invisible coating that makes your product feel nicer to use, but it doesn't actively treat or change your skin.

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 Palmeth-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 Palmeth-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

PPG-14 Palmeth-60 Hexyl Dicarbamate is a synthetic polymer derived from palm oil and propylene glycol. It is engineered to form a uniform, breathable film on the skin or hair surface.

How it works

When applied, it spreads into a thin, even layer that smooths the surface, reduces friction, and helps other ingredients stay in place. It also improves the sensory feel of a product, making it feel silky and lightweight.

Pros

Silky, smooth feel

Creates a velvety, non-greasy finish that makes products pleasant to apply and wear.

Improves product performance

Helps sunscreens and makeup spread evenly and stay on longer, reducing patchiness.

Cons and cautions

No active skincare benefit

It only improves texture and feel—it doesn't hydrate, brighten, or treat skin concerns.

Synthetic and not biodegradable

As a synthetic polymer, it may not break down easily in the environment, which is a concern for eco-conscious users.

Best for

  • Anyone who wants a silky, smooth-feeling moisturizer or primer
  • People with normal to dry skin who enjoy a soft, velvety finish

Use caution if

  • Those who prefer only naturally derived ingredients
  • People with very oily or acne-prone skin who might find film-formers too occlusive

Usage tips

Look for it in primers and sunscreens for a smoother application.
If you have oily skin, try a product with this ingredient lower on the ingredient list to avoid a heavy feel.
Pair with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid for balanced skin feel.

Safety summary

Generally recognized as safe for topical use in cosmetics. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported in peer-reviewed literature.

Research notes

Limited independent research on this specific ingredient. Safety is inferred from its chemical class (polyether-modified polymers), which have a long history of safe use in cosmetics.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
0.5% to 5%
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. No known restrictions at typical concentrations.
Common uses
Moisturizers, Sunscreens, Makeup primers, Hair styling products
Environmental note
As a synthetic polymer, it may not be readily biodegradable. Check if the brand uses eco-friendly sourcing or disposal practices.

Good to know

  • This ingredient is often used to replace silicones in 'silicone-free' formulas.
  • It is considered safe by major cosmetic safety panels at typical use levels.

Common questions

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

This is a man-made ingredient that creates a thin, flexible film on your skin or hair. It helps lotions and creams glide on easily and leaves a soft, non-greasy feel. Think of it like a gentle, invisible coating that makes your product feel nicer to use, but it doesn't actively treat or change your skin.

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

When applied, it spreads into a thin, even layer that smooths the surface, reduces friction, and helps other ingredients stay in place. It also improves the sensory feel of a product, making it feel silky and lightweight.

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

Generally recognized as safe for topical use in cosmetics. Low irritation and comedogenic risk. No significant safety concerns reported in peer-reviewed literature.

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

Those who prefer only naturally derived ingredients People with very oily or acne-prone skin who might find film-formers too occlusive

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Safety AssessmentOpenEuropean Chemicals Agency (ECHA) InformationOpenPubMed - Polymer safety in cosmeticsOpen

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.