What it is
PPG-26-buteth-26 is a synthetic copolymer made by attaching propylene oxide and ethylene oxide chains to a butyl alcohol starting point. In sunscreens and other skincare it works mainly as a solubilizer, allowing fragrances, oils, and lipophilic ingredients to be incorporated into aqueous systems without separating. It is often paired with PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil and similar nonionic surfactants to keep clear or low-viscosity formulas stable.
Safety & warnings
PPG-26-buteth-26 is generally well tolerated at the levels used in cosmetics and is not associated with significant irritation or sensitization. As with other ethoxylated ingredients, the manufacturing process should control for trace 1,4-dioxane, which is managed by suppliers through purification. It is not a known fragrance allergen and is not considered comedogenic.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic, produced by ethoxylation and propoxylation of butyl alcohol.
Questions everyone asks
What does PPG-26-buteth-26 do in a sunscreen?
It acts as a solubilizer and surfactant, helping oils, fragrance, and lipophilic ingredients blend evenly into water-based parts of the formula so the product stays uniform.
Is PPG-26-buteth-26 natural or synthetic?
It is synthetic, made by adding propylene oxide and ethylene oxide units to butyl alcohol to create a nonionic surfactant.