What is PEG in cosmetics?

The cosmetics we use every day consist of various chemical substances. One of the most popular additives found in many cosmetic preparations is the so-called PEG. What does it mean and how to understand this abbreviation? Is PEG harmful ? Let's find out.

PEG - what is it?

The term PEG comes from the name of polyethylene glycols (polyethylene glycol). These are polymeric, synthetic chemical compounds in the form of a transparent, odorless and clear liquid. And what is PEG in cosmetics ? The name includes various types of polyoxyethylene glycols, substances with hygroscopic, foaming, moisturizing and preserving properties.

What else is worth knowing about the properties of PEG? Cosmetics containing this additive have a positive effect on the condition of the skin: they wash, moisturize and soften the epidermis. Thanks to the admixture of PEG, cosmetic products have the right consistency and viscosity. Polyethylene glycol effectively binds water, blocking the drying process of cosmetics.

PEG 100 stearate in cosmetics: is it harmful?

Currently, a large group of cosmetics are makeup remover milks, creams, balms and masks. These are products intended for moisturizing and regeneration, also used in anti-aging treatments. A characteristic feature of these agents is that they have a semi-liquid consistency that facilitates application. Obtaining such a consistency is possible thanks to emulsifiers, such as PEG 100. In cosmetics, we can find it under the name: PEG-100 Stearate or PEG-100 Stearate.

Is PEG-100 polyethylene glycol harmful? This intermediate is classified as a safe emulsifier. According to the reports published by the American organization CIR (Cosmetic Ingredient Review), this substance does not sensitize, does not irritate the skin and is completely safe for humans. When testing preparations with the addition of PEG-100, no side effects were detected.

What is PEG 40 responsible for in cosmetics?

PEG 40 (Polyoxyl 40, Hydrogenated Castor Oil) is another raw material that is very often used in the cosmetics industry. They are polyethylene glycol derivatives of castor oil or hydrogenated castor oil, used as an ingredient in:

• nutrients,
• emulsion,
• ointments,
• masks,
• varnishes, etc.

In cosmetics , PEG 40 acts as a surfactant. Thanks to it, you can obtain a specific consistency of the product or dissolve other substances in it (oils, minerals, etc.). How does this type of PEG work on the body? The harmfulness of oils marked with the number 40 has not been scientifically confirmed. Therefore, it is a safe cosmetic ingredient.

Important: castor oil is not recommended for pregnant women. It is worth carefully checking the composition of cosmetics and in case of doubt, consult their choice with a doctor.

PEG 8 in cosmetics

PEG 8 also belongs to the group of polyoxyethylene glycols. Is it harmful ? This popular humectant with a molecular weight of 400 is responsible for binding water in cosmetics. It is a chemical compound that does not have a harmful effect on the human body. Its high quality and non-toxicity is evidenced by, among others, the fact that it has found application in the food industry.

On the Polish market, PEG 8 is available under the name POLIkol 400. The biodegradable intermediate is distributed by the PCC Group, one of the largest global producers of the so-called Green Chemistry. Cosmetics with PEG 8 from PCC meet the highest safety standards - this is evidenced by, among others, GMP EFfCl certificate. It is a confirmation of the application of Good Manufacturing Practices and product quality.

What are PEGs used in cosmetics?

We already know what PEGs are in cosmetics . To sum up, these are the raw materials thanks to which the care products we reach for every day can be easily spread over the skin. PEG currently plays a significant role in cosmetics - thanks to it, the substances do not dry out and perfectly combine other active ingredients.

PEG: an ingredient in cosmetics for adults and children

Due to their versatile operation, polyethylene glycols are of great interest to manufacturers in the cosmetics industry. This additive works well in the recipes of children's cosmetics and in the composition of cosmetic preparations intended for adults. The spectrum of applications of polyoxyethylene glycols is very wide. Today, we can easily find PEG in: shampoos , hand creams, face creams and many other products, such as:

• bath lotions,
• moisturizing emulsions,
• make-up removing milks,
• cosmetic butters,
• aftershave balms.

PEG is also found in cosmetics for children : emollients, shampoos, foams, oils, etc.

PEG and natural cosmetics

PEG is a substance obtained artificially - this makes some manufacturers of natural cosmetics completely resign from the use of glycols. However, there is no scientific evidence that PEG is harmful. These are non-toxic and safe compounds, positively affecting the structure, moisture and durability of many cosmetics that we reach for every day.

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