Glycereth-20
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Glycereth-3, 21156-05-8, BLAUNON GL-3, PEG-3 GLYCERYL ETHER, ETHANOL, GLYCERETH-3 [INCI]
Synthetic
Humectant
Clean
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.,.alpha.',.alpha.''-1,2,3-propanetriyltris-.omega.-hydroxy-
Formula
C9H20O6
Mol. Weight
224.25
CAS #
31694-55-0
Form
Powder
Functions
Humectant
A moisture magnet. Pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers up to the surface to keep skin plump and hydrated.
Viscosity Controlling
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic emulsifier derived from glycerin and ethylene oxide, developed mid-20th century for cosmetic formulations. Created to improve texture, stability, and hydration in modern skincare products.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed3 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR