murphyPPG-5-Ceteth-20
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polypropylene Glycol Cetyl Ether
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from petroleum-based or plant-derived polyols and cetyl alcohol through chemical synthesis processes. Produced by ethoxylation and polypropoxylation reactions linking these alcohol compounds together.
Oxirane, methyl-, polymer with oxirane, hexadecyl ether
CAS #
9087-53-0, 37311-01-6
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Fights Bacteria
Antioxidant Protection
Brightens Skin
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 642)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
3 studies / 1 irritating / 2 not irritating / reactions mild to moderate (CIR 642)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.05–10%
Rinse-off0.5–9%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2016
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR