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Glycereth-20 is widely used in Facial moisturizers and serums, Toners and essences, Shampoos and conditioners, Body washes and cleansers, Makeup and foundations, Deodorants.
Glycereth-20 can often be found in creams, lotions, and shampoos, as it helps create great texture and hydration.
Glycereth-20 can also be found in makeup bases and BB creams such as Missha, where its functions improve the product’s effectiveness and comfort on the skin.
CAS Number: 31694-55-0
EC (EINECS/ELINCS) Number: 500-075-4
Molecular Formula: C₉H₂₀O₆ (average representation)
Molecular Weight: ~224.25 g/mol (average)
SYNONYMS:
Glycereth-20, Polyoxyethylene (20) Glyceryl Ether, Ethoxylated Glycerin (20 EO), Ethoxylated Glycerol, Glycerol Ethoxylate, Polyethylene Glycol Glyceryl Ether, Polyoxyethylene Glycerol Ether, Glycerol-ethylene oxide adduct, Poly(ethylene oxide) glyceryl ether, Polyoxyethylene glyceryl ether, Glycerol polyoxyethylene ether, 2-[2,3-bis(2-hydroxyethoxy)propoxy]ethanol (peg-20), peg-20 glyceryl ether, polyethylene glycol (20) glyceryl ether, polyoxyethylene (20) glyceryl ether, Ethoxylated glycerin, Ethoxylated glycerol, Ethylene oxide polymer ether with glycerol, Glycereth, Glycerol polyoxyethylene ether, Glycerol-ethylene oxide adduct, Glycerol-initiated polyethylene glycol, Glycerol-polyethylene glycol adduct, Poly(ethylene oxide) glyceryl ether, Polyethylene glycol glycerin ether, Polyethylene glycol glycerol ether, Polyethylene glycol glyceryl ether, Polyethylene glycol triether with glycerol, Polyoxethylene glycerol, Polyoxyethylene glycerin, Polyoxyethylene glycerin ether, Polyoxyethylene glycerol, Polyoxyethylene glycerol ether, Polyoxyethylene glyceryl ether, α-Hydro-ω-hydroxypoly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl) ether with 1,2,3-propanetriol, α,α′,α′′-1,2,3-Propanetriyltris[ω-hydroxypoly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl)]
Glycereth-20 is a highly ethoxylated derivative of glycerin, produced by reacting glycerol with approximately 20 units of ethylene oxide.
Glycereth-20 is a nonionic, water-soluble polyether compound widely used in cosmetics and personal care products.
Due to its high degree of ethoxylation, Glycereth-20 is more hydrophilic and fluid compared to lower-number glycereth variants, making it especially effective as a humectant and viscosity modifier.
Glycereth-20 is a highly hydrophilic, multifunctional cosmetic ingredient that combines strong humectant properties with solvent and viscosity-modifying capabilities.
Its high ethoxylation level enhances water affinity, making Glycereth-20 especially effective in lightweight, water-based formulations.
Glycereth-20 is valued for improving hydration, texture, and formulation stability while maintaining a mild safety profile.
Glycereth-20 is a polyethylene glycol ether of Glycerin (q.v.) with an average ethoxylation value of 20.
Glycereth-20 is present in 0.01% of cosmetics.
Glycereth-20, also known as Glycereth-20, is a synthetic substance widely used in cosmetic products.
Glycereth-20's chemical structure is the ethylene oxide derivative of glycerin, which provides excellent moisturizing properties.
The main function of Glycereth-20 is to act as an emulsifier and humectant, helping to combine water with oil, thus ensuring a smooth and uniform texture of the product.
Glycereth-20 not only moisturizes the skin, but also helps maintain its softness and elasticity, which is why it is particularly valuable in creams, lotions and shampoos.
Although it is of synthetic origin, Glycereth-20 is safe and effective, and is often used in the cosmetic industry because of its ability to improve the effectiveness of products and the user experience.
Glycereth-20 has a high safety profile and is widely recognized in the cosmetic industry.
Studies have shown that glycereth-20 does not usually cause allergic reactions or skin irritation, but as with any product, individual sensitivity may occur.
Glycereth-20 is recommended to perform a sensitivity test, especially for those with sensitive skin or a tendency to allergies.
In addition, Glycereth-20 complies with strict international cosmetic regulations, including European Union standards, so its use is safe.
Cosmetic manufacturers recommend using glycereth-20 in various products, but it is important to pay attention to the overall formula and concentration to ensure optimal effect.
Taking these aspects into account, you can enjoy the benefits of glycereth-20.
Glycereth-20 not only moisturizes, but also has the ability to improve the skin barrier.
Glycereth-20 is a highly ethoxylated derivative of glycerin, produced by reacting glycerol with approximately twenty units of ethylene oxide.
Glycereth-20 is valued as a versatile and effective ingredient that combines humectant, solvent, and conditioning functions.
USES and APPLICATIONS of GLYCERETH-20:
Glycereth-20 is widely used in: Facial moisturizers and serums, Toners and essences, Shampoos and conditioners, Body washes and cleansers, Makeup and foundations, Deodorants.
Glycereth-20 can often be found in creams, lotions, and shampoos, as it helps create great texture and hydration.
Popular product categories where Glycereth-20 plays a significant role include hair care lines such as Innisfree shampoos and conditioners, as well as moisturizing creams from Etude House.
Additionally, many facial foam cleansers, also use this ingredient to provide gentle cleansing of the skin.
Glycereth-20 can also be found in makeup bases and BB creams such as Missha, where its functions improve the product’s effectiveness and comfort on the skin.
Glycereth-20 acts as a natural alkalizing agent for the skin, helping to maintain the correct moisture balance.
At the same time, Glycereth-20 increases the effectiveness of the product, as it allows active ingredients to penetrate better.
Glycereth-20 can be used in a variety of cosmetic formulations, from light emulsions to thick creams.
Given its versatility, Glycereth-20 becomes an excellent choice for both everyday use and specialized skin care products.
Its ability to create a pleasant texture and improve the feel of the product on the skin makes Glycereth-20 particularly valuable to cosmetic developers.
Glycereth-20 belongs to the class of polyethylene glycol (PEG) ethers and is widely used in cosmetic and personal care formulations due to its strong hydrophilic nature and multifunctional performance.
Its chemical structure allows Glycereth-20 to bind water effectively while also acting as a mild conditioning and solubilizing agent, making it particularly suitable for lightweight, water-based products.
In terms of usage, Glycereth-20 is commonly found in moisturizers, serums, toners, shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and makeup formulations.
Glycereth-20 is primarily used as a humectant, solvent, and viscosity-controlling agent.
Glycereth-20 helps dissolve and stabilize ingredients such as fragrances, botanical extracts, and active compounds that may otherwise be difficult to incorporate into aqueous systems.
Additionally, Glycereth-20 contributes to the clarity and stability of formulations, especially in transparent gels and liquids.
Its ability to improve both the technical performance and sensory appeal of formulations makes Glycereth-20 a widely used component in modern cosmetic and personal care product development.
FUNCTIONAL USES of GLYCERETH-20:
*Hydration enhancement
*Solubilization of active ingredients and fragrances
*Texture improvement
*Viscosity adjustment
*Stabilization of formulations
PURPOSE AND BENEFITS of GLYCERETH-20:
Glycereth-20 has the unique property of acting as a gentle but highly effective cleanser.
Glycereth-20 allows you to remove dirt, excess sebum and makeup residue without damaging the skin's natural moisture balance.
Unlike more aggressive surfactants, Glycereth-20 has a gentle effect, so it is perfect for sensitive or irritated skin.
In addition, Glycereth-20 increases the penetration of other active ingredients into the skin, enhancing their effect and effectiveness.
Glycereth-20 is used in hair care products not only moisturizes, but also gives hair a feeling of smoothness and lightness.
Its ability to form a smooth protective layer on the hair surface helps protect Glycereth-20 from environmental influences and drying out.
Glycereth-20 also reduces the drying effect of shampoo or conditioner foam, so the hair remains soft and has a healthy shine.
Another special feature of Glycereth-20 is its stability in various pH and temperature ranges.
This allows Glycereth-20 to be used both in light emulsions and in more complex cosmetic products that require long-lasting effectiveness and a stable texture.
In addition, Glycereth-20 improves the feel of the product on the skin – a cream containing this ingredient glides on pleasantly, like a silk ribbon, and the scent and texture become even more balanced and attractive.
For cosmetic creators, Glycereth-20 is an indispensable tool that allows you to combine science and aesthetics.
Glycereth-20 is an ingredient that not only serves functionality, but also gives products a sense of luxury and quality.
CHARACTERISTICS of GLYCERETH-20:
*Nonionic (low irritation potential)
*Highly water-soluble
*Lightweight, non-greasy sensory profile
*Glycereth-20 improves formulation clarity
*Glycereth-20 enhances spreadability and texture
*Glycereth-20 provides smooth after-feel
*Derived from glycerin (natural origin possible)
FUNCTION(S) of GLYCERETH-20 IN COSMETIC PRODUCTS
*HUMECTANT
Glycereth-20 holds and retains moisture in cosmetic products
*VISCOSITY CONTROLLING
Glycereth-20 increases or decreases the viscosity of cosmetic products
KEY FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES of GLYCERETH-20:
*Humectant (strong moisture retention)
*Solvent
*Skin-conditioning agent
*Viscosity controlling agent
*Mild emulsifier / solubilizer
*Lubricant
PROPERTIES of GLYCERETH-20:
From a properties perspective, Glycereth-20 is typically a clear to slightly yellow liquid with a mild odor and moderate viscosity.
Glycereth-20 is highly soluble in water and also compatible with alcohols and glycols.
Due to its high level of ethoxylation, Glycereth-20 exhibits strong hydrophilicity, low volatility, and excellent moisture-retention capacity.
Glycereth-20 is chemically stable under normal conditions and performs well across a broad pH range.
As a nonionic compound, Glycereth-20 is compatible with a wide variety of cosmetic ingredients, including different types of surfactants.
FUNCTIONS of GLYCERETH-20:
*Conditioner,
*Humectant,
*Viscosity Modifier
ORIGIN of GLYCERETH-20:
*Natural Origin,
*Non-Animal Origin,
*Plant Origin,
*Synthetic,
*Vegetable Origin
LABELING CLAIMS of GLYCERETH-20:
*Biodegradable,
*Naturally Derived,
FUNCTIONS (INCI) of GLYCERETH-20:
*Humectant :
Glycereth-20 maintains water content of a cosmetic both in its packaging and on the skin
*Viscosity controlling :
Glycereth-20 increases or decreases the viscosity of cosmetics
KEY CHARACTERISTICS of GLYCERETH-20:
The key characteristics of Glycereth-20 include its lightweight, non-greasy feel and its ability to enhance the sensory properties of formulations.
Glycereth-20 forms a thin, invisible film on the skin that helps retain moisture without creating heaviness or stickiness.
Glycereth-20 also improves spreadability, allowing products to be applied more easily and evenly.
Furthermore, Glycereth-20 contributes to smoother textures and enhances the overall aesthetic quality of cosmetic products.
BENEFITS of GLYCERETH-20:
The benefits of Glycereth-20 are primarily related to hydration, formulation performance, and user experience.
Glycereth-20 helps keep the skin soft, smooth, and well-hydrated by attracting and retaining water.
Glycereth-20 enhances the feel and application of products, reduces tackiness, and supports the delivery of active ingredients.
Its mildness and low irritation potential make Glycereth-20 suitable for use in products designed for sensitive skin.
SUSTAINABILITY IS RECOVERY of GLYCERETH-20:
The production of Glycereth-20 poses certain environmental and social challenges.
Although it is a synthetic product, Glycereth-20 uses glycerin, which can be obtained from natural sources such as vegetable oils.
This allows for a reduction in dependence on petroleum products and promotes the principles of sustainable development.
However, large-scale industrial production can have negative environmental impacts, especially if waste management and energy consumption are not taken into account.
From a social perspective, the conditions of the production process can raise questions about workers' rights and safety, especially in countries where strict labor standards are not in place.
It is therefore important to choose products from reliable suppliers who adhere to sustainable and ethical principles to ensure that their production is responsible for the environment and people.
BENEFITS of GLYCERETH-20:
*Glycereth-20 provides intense hydration by attracting water
*Glycereth-20 leaves skin soft, smooth, and non-greasy
*Glycereth-20 improves product spreadability
*Glycereth-20 enhances sensory feel of formulations
*Glycereth-20 helps dissolve poorly soluble ingredients
*Glycereth-20 supports clear and stable formulations
*Suitable for sensitive skin applications
PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of GLYCERETH-20:
INCI Name: Glycereth-20
Chemical Description: Ethoxylated glycerin (average of 20 moles of ethylene oxide)
CAS Number: 31694-55-0
EC (EINECS/ELINCS) Number: 500-075-4
Molecular Formula: C₉H₂₀O₆ (average representation)
Molecular Weight: ~224.25 g/mol (average)
Chemical Class: Polyethylene glycol (PEG) ether of glycerin
Appearance: Clear to slightly yellow liquid
Physical State: Viscous liquid
Odor: Mild, characteristic
Color: Colorless to pale yellow
Solubility in Water: Completely miscible
Solubility in Alcohols: Soluble
Density: ~1.10 – 1.15 g/cm³ (typical range for PEG ethers)
Viscosity: Moderate (lower than low-EO glycereths due to higher EO content)
Boiling Point: High, >300 °C (decomposes)
Flash Point: High (low volatility)
Vapor Pressure: Very low
Structure: Polyoxyethylene glyceryl ether (≈20 EO units)
Polarity: Highly hydrophilic
Ionic Nature: Nonionic
Log P: ~ -2.2 (hydrophilic)
Hygroscopicity: Strongly hygroscopic (absorbs moisture)
pH Stability: Stable across a wide pH range (≈4–10)
Reactivity: Chemically stable under normal conditions
Compatibility: Compatible with anionic, cationic, and amphoteric systems
Surface Activity: Mild surfactant / solubilizing behavior
CAS Number: 31694-55-0
Chem/IUPAC Name: Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.,.alpha.',.alpha.''-1,2,3-propanetriyltris-.omega.-hydroxy-
EINECS/ELINCS No:
COSING REF No: 76274
Other(deleted CASRN):223797-38-4
ECHA ELINCS - REACH Pre-Reg:500-075-4
FDA UNII: MHY4NJW64H
XlogP3-AA:-2.20 (est)
Molecular Weight:224.25360000
Formula:C9 H20 O6
Assay: 95.00 to 100.00
Food Chemicals Codex Listed:No
Soluble in: water, 6.35e+005 mg/L @ 25 °C (est)
FIRST AID MEASURES of GLYCERETH-20:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation:
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact:
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact:
Rinse out with plenty of water.
Call in ophthalmologist.
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing:
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most).
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available
ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of GLYCERETH-20:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains.
Collect, bind, and pump off spills.
Observe possible material restrictions.
Take up dry.
Dispose of properly.
Clean up affected area.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of GLYCERETH-20:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Foam
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.
EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of GLYCERETH-20:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection.
Safety glasses
*Body Protection:
protective clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Recommended Filter type: Filter A
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.
HANDLING and STORAGE of GLYCERETH-20:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed.
Dry.
STABILITY and REACTIVITY of GLYCERETH-20:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature).
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available
