PPG-26-Buteth-26
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Synthetic ingredient that has a variety of cosmetic applications | Functions as a hair conditioning ingredient, surfactant, and emulsifier
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
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What Is PPG-26-Buteth-26?
PPG-26-Buteth-26 is a synthetic ingredient. The PPG in the name stands for polypropylene glycol, and this ingredient combines PPG with an ether of a fatty alcohol known as buty alcohol. PPG-26-buteth-26 is used in cosmetics for a variety of functions. In hair care products, it helps improve the texture of chemically damaged strands and increases sheen and body. Used on skin, it can enhance suppleness and reduce flaking. It also serves as a surfactant (cleanser) and emulsifier. In its raw form it is a colorless or pale-yellow transparent liquid. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has ruled PPG-26-Buteth-26 safe as used in cosmetics, including products meant for use near the eyes (3.6% concentration) and lips (2% concentration). Lower amounts are often used in emollient/emulsifier blends headlined by hydrogenated castor oil.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Amended Safety Assessment of Butyl Polyoxyalkylene Ethers as Used in Cosmetics, Draft Final Amended Report for Panel Review, March 17, 2017 [https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/polyoxyalkylene%20ethers.pdf]
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PPG-26-Buteth-26, Cosmetics Info [https://cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/ppg-26-buteth-26]
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Ether of cetyl alcohol | Helps to create cohesive, well-mixed formulas
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