PPG-5-Ceteth-20

PPG-5-Ceteth-20 is a nonionic surfactant/solubilizer used in cleansers and emulsions (often ~0.5–5%), and surfactants can disrupt the stratum corneum and sting compromised skin despite being "mild". Human patch-test and use data generally show low-to-moderate irritation potential, but eczema-prone or barrier-impaired patients can react, especially in leave-on products or in combination with other detergents. Given its functional role and cumulative routine exposure risk, a mild score is safest for sensitive-skin assessment. Safety Notes: PPG-5-Ceteth-20 is a nonionic surfactant/solubilizer typically used at very low levels (~0.05–0.5%) in leave-on lotions/serums to solubilize fragrance or small amounts of oil, and around ~0.5–5% in rinse-off cleansers and emulsified creams as a co-surfactant/emulsifier. In consumer-available high-surfactant systems (e.g., makeup removers, micellar/cleansing concentrates, and some high-detergency cleansers), it can be pushed into the ~10–15% range to drive solubilization and cleansing performance without being prescription or professional-only.