Back to Ingredient Dictionary

Common Name(s): Propylene glycol ceteth-3 propionate,ppg-3 cetyl peg/ppg ether propionate (modified) derivative

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Helps oil and water blend and provides emollient conditioning.

Why It's Used: Ppg-3 modification of cetyl peg/ppg ether propionate (modified) gives hlb ~6โ€“8; balanced mild emulsifier-emollient; propionate ester modification.

How It Works: Ppg-3 arms provide lipophilic character; cetyl peg/ppg ether propionate (modified) contributes the hydrophobic/emollient tail; hlb ~6โ€“8.

Typically Found In: W/o emulsions,emollient systems,specialty skin care

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient โ€“ emulsifier

Secondary Functions: Emollient,skin conditioning,viscosity controlling

Application Areas:

Facial Skincare

Body Care

Hair Care

Beard Care

Color Cosmetics (Makeup)

Dietary/Oral Supplements

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%โ€“5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Conditional

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Ppg from petrochemical; base material from plant or synthetic.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ€“ very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 โ€“ low

Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1โ€“2.

Works Well With: Nonionic emulsifiers,emollients,fatty alcohols

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Propylene glycol ceteth-3 propionate: combined pg/peg-3 cetyl ether modified with propionate ester; balanced hlb ~6-8; mild emulsifier-emollient hybrid.

Last Verified: Cosing database,inci dictionary

Primary Sources: 2026-03-28