PPG-20 Methyl Glucose Ether
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Blend of polypropylene glycol + methyl glucose derivatives | Helps soften and smooth skin and hair
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is PPG-20 Methyl Glucose Ether?
PPG-20 methyl glucose ether is a blend of polypropylene glycol and methyl glucose derivatives that helps soften and smooth skin and hair. It is considered an excellent hydrating ingredient due to its humectant (water-binding) properties. It is sometimes used to enhance the texture of cosmetic formulas. According to suppliers of PPG-20 methyl glucose ether, it comes as a pale yellow, medium-viscosity liquid in its raw material form and is obtained from corn. In 2016, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded PPG-20 methyl glucose ether is a safe cosmetic ingredient. Suppliers of this ingredient recommend usage levels range from 0.1% to 5%, depending on application and amount of moisturization desired.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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UL Prospector, Accessed October 2021, ePublication [https://www.ulprospector.com/en/na/PersonalCare/Detail/76/34501/Glucam-P-20-humectant]
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International Journal of Toxicology, 2016, pages 12S-40S [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1091581816670322]
From the Clinic
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Take the skin quizOther forms of PPG-20 Methyl Glucose Ether
These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. PPG-20 Methyl Glucose Ether is the common form.
Related Ingredients
PPG-10 Methyl Glucose Ether
Exfoliants ingredient
Polypropylene Glycol
Polymer of propylene glycol | Functions as a humectant and delivery agent
PPG-12/SMDI Copolymer
A synthetic polymer combined with polypropylene glycol | Offers film-forming and skin-conditioning properties
PPG-14 Butyl Ether
Functions as a solvent and skin-conditioning agent | Helps restore a supple feel to skin and enhances the texture of personal care product formulas
PPG-26-Buteth-26
Synthetic ingredient that has a variety of cosmetic applications | Functions as a hair conditioning ingredient, surfactant, and emulsifier
PPG-5 Ceteth-20
Ether of cetyl alcohol | Helps to create cohesive, well-mixed formulas
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