Polypropylene glycol stearyl ether is primarily found in “moisturizing” personal care products. It is written as PPG-11 or PPG-15 stearyl ether in the ingredient lists. This ingredient is made by the reaction between propylene oxide and stearyl alcohol. Stearyl alcohols come from animal fats and oils (vegans beware!). The designation 11 or 15 is based on the propylene glycol “units” produced in the reaction. They are colorless to light yellow in appearance with an oily texture.
PPG-11/15 stearyl ethers are known lubricants intended to give the skin a moisturized look and feel. They are also classified as skin conditioning agents and emollients. The chemicals have been deemed safe at concentrations typical of most cosmetic applications in which they are found. Even concentrated, these chemicals did not irritate the eyes. A related chemical, PPG’s butyl ether, was found to be mildly irritating to eyes and skin. It is absorbed very slowly, if at all, in the digestive tract, where it is easily metabolized and eliminated as waste in the urine.
As time goes on and my knowledge increases, I am more compelled to make the switch to all natural personal care products. I currently use over-the-counter products, all of which contain the ingredients I have reviewed so far. I have not experienced any known irritation with the products I use on a daily basis and I am satisfied (most of the time) with the results — I have very temperamental skin! I just can’t help but wonder what long-term effects my drug of choice might have on my well-being.
