Propylene Glycol Capreth-4
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Propylene Glycol Caprylic Ether
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from propylene glycol and fatty alcohols from petroleum or plant sources. Synthesized through ethoxylation, where ethylene oxide is added to create a surfactant molecule.
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-decyl-.omega.-2-hydroxy-1-methylethyl-, (4 mol EO avergae molar ratio)
CAS #
-
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
Brightens Skin
Reduces Inflammation
Wound Healing
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
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.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Restricted By
Concentration Guide
CIR lists it as not reported to be in use.
CIR · report published 2016
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR
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