Ingredient review
PPG-36-Buteth-36
INCI: PPG-36-BUTETH-36
A safe, effective emulsifier that helps mix water and oil in your products, but may be drying for very sensitive or dry skin.
In plain English
PPG-36-Buteth-36 is a synthetic ingredient that helps oil and water blend together in products like cleansers and lotions. It also helps remove dirt and oil from your skin or hair. While it is generally gentle, it can sometimes strip too much moisture if used in high amounts or on already dry skin.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
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
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
PPG-36-Buteth-36 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.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging PPG-36-Buteth-36.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- 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
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic polymer made from propylene glycol and butyl ether, designed to act as an emulsifier and surfactant in cosmetic formulas.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a stable, creamy texture. It also helps lift dirt and excess oil from the skin or hair so they can be rinsed away.
Pros
Effective emulsifier
Helps create stable, smooth formulas that feel pleasant on the skin and rinse off easily.
Low irritation risk
Generally considered safe and non-irritating for most skin types when used at typical concentrations.
Cons and cautions
Potential drying effect
In high concentrations or for very dry skin, it may strip natural oils, leading to tightness or flakiness.
Synthetic origin
Not derived from natural sources, which may be a concern for those seeking plant-based or minimal-ingredient products.
Best for
- People with normal to oily skin
- Those using rinse-off products like cleansers and shampoos
Use caution if
- Individuals with extremely dry or compromised skin barriers who may prefer gentler, non-foaming cleansers
Usage tips
Safety summary
PPG-36-Buteth-36 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, though it may be slightly drying for very dry or sensitive skin.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have found PPG alkyl ethers to be safe in rinse-off and leave-on products at current usage levels. No significant toxicity or sensitization concerns have been identified.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Usually 0.5% to 5% of the formula
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and the European Commission, with no known restrictions at typical concentrations.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Conditioners, Body washes, Lotions
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic polymer, it may not be readily biodegradable. However, it is used in low concentrations and is generally considered low-risk for the environment.
Good to know
- PPG-36-Buteth-36 is often found in foaming cleansers and shampoos for its ability to create a rich lather.
- It is considered safe by major regulatory bodies when used as directed in cosmetics.
Common questions
What is PPG-36-Buteth-36 in beauty products?
PPG-36-Buteth-36 is a synthetic ingredient that helps oil and water blend together in products like cleansers and lotions. It also helps remove dirt and oil from your skin or hair. While it is generally gentle, it can sometimes strip too much moisture if used in high amounts or on already dry skin.
What does PPG-36-Buteth-36 do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a stable, creamy texture. It also helps lift dirt and excess oil from the skin or hair so they can be rinsed away.
Is PPG-36-Buteth-36 safe for most people?
PPG-36-Buteth-36 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, though it may be slightly drying for very dry or sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with PPG-36-Buteth-36?
Individuals with extremely dry or compromised skin barriers who may prefer gentler, non-foaming cleansers
Research sources
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.