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Ingredient dictionary

PPG-9

Also listed as: Polypropylene glycol

PPG-9 is a light, water-friendly synthetic polymer made from propylene oxide that helps a product hold moisture and feel smooth. It is on the label of 1 product in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

What PPG-9 does

  • Holds water in the formula
  • Helps control thickness and flow
  • Adds a smooth, slippery feel

PPG-9 is made by linking propylene oxide units onto a small starter molecule, propylene glycol, in a controlled reaction. The number in the name, 9, refers to the average count of repeating units in each molecule. Because the chain is short, the material stays fluid and is easy to blend into water-based formulas.

Formulators use it for a few related jobs. It draws in and holds water in the product, helps set how thick the formula is, and adds a smooth, slippery feel. It is most often seen in shampoos, where it helps the formula spread evenly and rinse out easily.

Good for

Suits anyone who wants a light conditioning ingredient, especially in rinse-off products like shampoo.

Frequently asked questions

Is PPG-9 safe for skin?

PPG-9 is generally considered well tolerated and is used in many cosmetic products. Like any ingredient, it can bother a person with a sensitivity, so patch testing a new product is a sensible habit.

Is PPG-9 the same as PEG?

No. PPG-9 is built from propylene oxide, while PEG ingredients are built from ethylene oxide. They are related polyether chemistry but are different materials, so the two names are not interchangeable.

Products with PPG-9

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