Ingredient dictionary

PPG-5-Ceteth-20

A mild cleansing agent and emulsifier made from cetyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol, that helps oil and water blend and lifts dirt from skin and hair. It is on the label of 26 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What PPG-5-Ceteth-20 does

Cleans by lifting oil and dirt
Blends oil and water into one mix
Helps keep formulas stable and smooth

PPG-5-Ceteth-20 is made by chemically linking a fatty alcohol called cetyl alcohol to small chains of two building blocks, propylene oxide and ethylene oxide. The numbers in the name show how many units of each are added. The result has a water-loving end and an oil-loving end, which is why it can bring oil and water together.

Formulators use it because it cleanses well, blends oil and water, and works in rinse-off products. Because it carries no electrical charge, it tends to mix well with other ingredients. In a formula it feels light and slippery, and it rinses away easily, leaving skin or hair feeling clean rather than tight.

Good for

Suits rinse-off products like body washes, shampoos and cleansers, where it helps cleanse and keep formulas blended.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is PPG-5-Ceteth-20 safe?

It is a common ingredient in rinse-off cleansers and is generally well tolerated by most people. Like any cleanser, it can still feel drying or irritate if your skin is very sensitive, so patch testing a new product is a sensible step.

What does PPG-5-Ceteth-20 do in shampoo?

In shampoo it helps lift oil and dirt from hair and scalp, and keeps the formula evenly blended. It usually works alongside other cleansing ingredients, so it is one part of the wash rather than the whole story.