Cosmetic ingredient

PEG-22/DODECYL GLYCOL COPOLYMER

PEG-22/DODECYL GLYCOL COPOLYMER is a synthetic polymer made of polyoxyethylene chains joined to dodecanediol units. In the INCI name, “PEG-22” refers to an average number of ethylene oxide units along the chain, so it does not describe one single molecule with a fixed size.

INCIPE1 products
CAS number
78336-31-9

PEG-22/DODECYL GLYCOL COPOLYMER: what it is

PEG-22/DODECYL GLYCOL COPOLYMER is a synthetic polymer made of polyoxyethylene chains joined to dodecanediol units. In the INCI name, “PEG-22” refers to an average number of ethylene oxide units along the chain, so it does not describe one single molecule with a fixed size.

The available chemical description also gives an average proportion between ethylene oxide and dodecanediol units. That arrangement brings together a portion that interacts more readily with water and another with a more oil-like character, which helps explain its place in preparations that need different components to stay evenly dispersed.

PEG-22/DODECYL GLYCOL COPOLYMER: what it does in cosmetics

In cosmetics, PEG-22/DODECYL GLYCOL COPOLYMER is an emulsifying surfactant. In practical terms, it helps water and oily components remain mixed, supporting a more even look and texture in a cream, lotion, or another product made from two phases.

It is also classified as a light stabilizer: its purpose is to help the formulation resist deterioration caused by light exposure, not to act as a sunscreen on the skin. This describes an expected role in the product itself; it does not by itself show a treatment, moisturising, or skin-protection effect.

PEG-22/DODECYL GLYCOL COPOLYMER: conditions and care

Clinical reports have linked PEG-22/dodecyl glycol copolymers in creams to allergic contact dermatitis. They do not establish frequency or general risk; if a product causes a reaction, stop using it and seek professional advice.

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