PPG-1 Hydroxyethyl Caprylamide
AKA “Hydroxyethyl Caprylamide
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Ppg-1 hydroxyethyl caprylamide
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
N-[2-(2-Hydroxypropoxy)ethyl] octamide
Form
Liquid
See origin →
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
Locks In Moisture
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A synthetic humectant and conditioning agent developed in the late 20th century as part of modern propylene glycol polymer chemistry. It was engineered to provide moisture-binding and skin-smoothing properties in contemporary skincare formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
Dermal absorption: 100%. Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 772).
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR