Propylene Glycol Capreth-4
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Propylene Glycol Caprylic Ether
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-decyl-.omega.-2-hydroxy-1-methylethyl-, (4 mol EO avergae molar ratio)
CAS #
-
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
Brightens Skin
Reduces Inflammation
Wound Healing
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Synthesized in the late 20th century as a polyethylene glycol derivative of capric acid. Created for use in modern cosmetics as a solubilizer and emulsifier, designed to improve the stability and texture of complex skincare formulations.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Restricted By
CIR Safety Findings
Not an Irritant
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR