Safety Evaluation of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Compounds for Cosmetic Use.

Polyethylene glycols (PEGs) are products of condensed ethylene oxide and water that can have various derivatives and functions. Since many PEG types are hydrophilic, they are favorably used as penetration enhancers, especially in topical dermatological preparations. PEGs, together with their typically nonionic derivatives, are broadly utilized in cosmetic products as surfactants, emulsifiers, cleansing agents, humectants, and skin conditioners. The compounds studied in this review include PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer, PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, and PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil. Overall, much of the data available in this review are on PEGylated oils (PEG-40 and PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oils), which were recommended as safe for use in cosmetics up to 100% concentration. Currently, PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate and PEGylated oils are considered safe for cosmetic use according to the results of relevant studies. Additionally, PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer should be further studied to ensure its safety as a cosmetic ingredient.

INTRODUCTION

Polyethylene glycols (PEGs) are composed of polyether compounds repeating ethylene glycol units according to the constituent monomer or parent molecule (as ethylene glycol, ethylene oxide, or oxyethylene) (Fig. 1). Most PEGs are commonly available commercially as mixtures of different oligomer sizes in broadly- or narrowly-defined molecular weight (MW) ranges. For instance, PEG-10,000 typically designates a mixture of PEG molecules (n = 195 to 265) having an average MW of 10,000. PEG is also known as polyethylene oxide (PEO) or polyoxyethylene (POE), with the three names being chemical synonyms. However, PEGs mainly refer to oligomers and polymers with molecular masses below 20,000 g/mol, while PEOs are polymers with molecular masses above 20,000 g/mol, and POEs are polymers of any molecular mass. Relatively small molecular weight PEGs are produced by the chemical reaction between ethylene oxide and water or ethylene glycol (or other ethylene glycol oligomers), as catalyzed by acidic or basic catalysts. To produce PEO or high-molecular weight PEGs, synthesis is performed by suspension polymerization. It is necessary to hold the growing polymer chain in solution during the course of the poly-condensation process. The reaction is catalyzed by magnesium-, aluminum-, or calcium-organoelement compounds. To prevent coagulation of polymer chains in the solution, chelating additives such as dimethylglyoxime are used (1).

Fig. 1.

Polimerization of ethylene glycol.

PEGs, together with their derivatives, do not have definite chemical entities, rather, they are compound mixtures having different chain lengths. PEGs are used in cosmetics “as is” or in combination with their derivatives in which their 2 terminal primary hydroxyl groups can create mono-, di- and poly-esters, amines, ethers and acetals. Furthermore, PEGs can create additional compounds and complexes through a reaction in their ether bridges. Overall, PEG derivatives may include PEG ethers (e.g. laureths, ceteths, ceteareths, oleths, and PEG ethers of glyceryl cocoates), PEG fatty acids (e.g. PEG laurates, dilaurates, stearates, and distearates), PEG castor oils, PEG amine ethers (PEG cocamines), PEG propylene glycols, and other derivates (e.g., PEG soy sterols and PEG beeswax). Since many PEG types are hydrophilic, they are favorably used as penetration enhancers, especially in topical dermatological preparations (2). Polyethylene glycols (PEGs) and their derivatives are widely used in cosmetics as surfactants, cleansing agents, emulsifiers, skin conditioners, and humectants.

Adding to their use in cosmetics, many PEG compounds also have other applications. Available information from these uses is included in this assessment where relevant. In the pharmaceutical industry, for instance, they are used as ointment bases or vehicles for drugs in capsules, tablet and pill binders, suppositories, and liquid prescriptions; and in veterinary drugs as part of parenteral, topical, ophthalmic, oral, and rectal preparations. Further various applications were found in soaps and detergents, wood preservation, printing, chemical mixtures, as well as in industries that produces textiles, leather, plastics, resins, paper, ceramics, glass, rubber, petroleum, and metal. Polyoxyethylene sorbitan esters (polysorbates) and polyethylene glycol, with an average molecular weight of 6,000, are permitted as food additives in various food products (3,4).

In previous studies, PEGs and various PEG compounds have been reviewed and assessed well to be concluded as relatively safe for use in cosmetics under the present conditions of intended use (3,5,6). However, all PEG compounds were not covered in the previous studies due to their wide variety, and the introduction of new entities currently used in cosmetics suggests supplementary evaluation. Thus, it is essential to continuously monitor the safety and risks of PEG-derived products being exposed to consumers using cosmetic products to ensure that no potential health threats will arise, especially when used extensively and chronically. In this review, we searched for and enumerated the PEG polymers and their derivatives that are used in cosmetics (Table 1) in order to evaluate the safety of their application according to the currently available information in the literature.

Table 1.

PEG polymers and their derivatives in cosmetic

Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients
PEG-2	Almond Glycerides			MULSIFAN CAO 02	Co-emulsifier. It is an ethoxylated, virgin almond oil with non-ionic character used for the preparation of w/o emulsions.
	Castor Oil	61791-12-6; 107853-28-1			Emulsifying agents and surfactants.
	Cocamine	61791-14-8; 12610-15-0	PEG-2 COCAMINE	Sabopal NC 2	Alkaline emulsions like hair-dye creams or gels.
	Dilaurate	9005-02-01		PegosperseTM 200 DL	Nonionic emulsifier for neutral and mildly alkaline and acidic systems. It is a fluid emulsifier, dispersant and spreading agent.
	Dimeadowfoamamido ethylmonium Methosulfate		PEG-2 DIMEADOWFOAMA MIDOETHYLMONIU M METHOSULFATE	Meadowquat® HG	Produced by reacting meadowfoam seed oil to form this sulfated (nonchloride) quaternium compound for enhancing the conditioning effects of meadowfoamate.
	Distearate	109-30-8	PEG-2 DISTEARATE	Dub DSDEG	Emulsifier. Used in cosmetic products.
	Hydrogenated Castor Oil	61788-85-0; 113148-98-4			Emulsifier.
	Hydrogenated Tallowamine		PEG-2 HYDROGENATED TALLOW AMINE	Protox T-2	Used in shampoos. Emulsifier, anti-irritant, neutralizing agent, anti-static agent, a foam booster and a mild detergent.
	Laurate SE				Emulsifiers.
	Milk Solid			GALACTENE	Emollient. Used for delicate and dry skins, soaps, syndets, shampoos. Available in powder form.
	Oleamine		PEG-2 OLEAMINE	Sabopal NO 2	Used for alkaline emulsions like hair-dye creams or gels.
	Oleate	106-12-7	PEG-2 OLEATE	Nikkol MYO-2	Lipophilic emulsifier obtained by the addition of ethylene oxide to fatty acids.
	Soyamine	61791-24-0	PEG-2 SOYAMINE	Protox S-2; Ethomeen® SV/12	Used in shampoos. Emulsifier, anti-irritant, neutralizing agent, anti-static agent, a foam booster and a mild detergent.
	Stearate	106-11-6	PEG-2 STEARATE	Nikkol MYS-2	Lipophilic emulsifier obtained by the addition of ethylene oxide to fatty acids.
	Stearyl Ether	9005-00-9		Acconon® SA-2	Used in the formulation of cosmetic O/W or W/O emulsions in combination with other emulsifiers.
	Tallowamine	61791-26-2	PEG-2 TALLOW AMINE	Hetoxamine T-2; Sabopal NS 2	Anti-static agent and as emulsifier for waxes and oils. It is formed by the reaction of fatty primary amines with ethylene oxide.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
Disodium oleamido PEG-2	Sulfosuccinate			Cola® Mate OPA-30	Characterized by mildness and the ability to moderate the irritation of anionics on the skin.
PEG-3	C12-18 Alcohol			ISOXAL -5	O/W and w/o emulsifier and solubilizer. Used in skin oils, anhydrous preprations, microemulsions, bath oils and decorative cosmetics.
	Castor Oil	61791-12-6; 107853-28-1			Emulsifiers and surfactants.
	Dicaprylate/Dicaprate	68583-52-8	PEG-3 DICAPRYLATE/CAPRATE	Dub 810 TEG	Emollient. Used in cosmetic products.
	Dimethicone			Emulsil® S-391	Water soluble silicone copolyol surfactant used as plasticizer and solubilizer in cosmetic systems. Used in hair, skin and body care.
	Distearate	91031-45-7; 9005-08-7; 25062-49-1	PPG-5-LAURETH-5; PEG-3 DISTEARATE	Cutina® TS; Tegin® D1102; Nikkol Estepearl 30V; Genapol® TS Powder	Opacifying agent and pearlieser for the preparation of surfactant washing and cleansing preparations.
	Lauryl Ether			GLYCOLENE	O/w type emulsifier, solubilizer, emollient and humectant. It is non-sticky and soluble in water, glycerin as well as in glycols. Used in lotions, tonics and gel.
	Stearate	9005-08-7; 155833-47-9			Emulsifying agents.
Magnesium PEG-3	Cocamide Sulfate	122998-71-4	MAGNESIUM PEG-3 COCAMIDE SULFATE	Hydriosul® AMG.30	Thickener. Used in cosmetics.
PEG-4		25322-68-3	PEG-4	Sabopeg 200; POGOL® 200; Jeechem 200	Humectant. Used in shower and bath products, creams and lotions, shampoos, shaving products and liquid soaps.
	Cellulose			ALCORAMNOSAN	Rheology modifier. It is a gelling agent only for water/ethanol systems. It does not form any dry film on the surface of the skin (artificial desquamation).
	Diheptanoate		PEG-4 DIHEPTANOATE	Liponate® 2-DH	Skincare anti-aging, skincare anti-acne, skincare treatment, skincare moisturization, skincare protection, sun care, color cosmetics and hair care.
	Efa Proline Ester			AMINOEFADERMA	Nourishing agent for skin suppleness, hair treatment and conditioning. Offers anticellulitic-, local anti-inflammatoryand bioenergetic properties.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-4	Laurate	9004-81-3	PEG-4 LAURATE	Pegosperse® 200 ML	Versatile mild HLB range surface active agent. For use in products with high clarity. Emulsions Liquid products Lotions Liquid products Oils.
	Oleate	9004-96-0; 10108-25-5	PEG-4 OLEATE	Jeemate 200-OC; Hydriol® OP.2	Used as emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
	Olivate	226708-41-4	PEG-4 OLIVATE	Olivem 700	Used in cosmetic formulations.
	Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate	72828-11-6	PEG-4 POLYGLYCERYL-2 STEARATE	Hostacerin® DGSB	Used in liquid and creamy oil-in-water emulsions. Acts as an emulsifier and co-emulsifier with special emulsifying effect on vegetable oils.
	Rapeseedamide	85536-23-8	PEG-4 RAPESEEDAMIDE	Amidet® N; Masamide® R-4	Liquid non-ionic surfactant with good thickening and foaming properties. Also acts as co-surfactant, thickener, emulsifier, moisturizers and solubilizer.
	Stearate	9004-99-3; 106-07-0	PEG-4 STEARATE	Jeemate 200-DPS; Nikkol MYS-4; Sabowax SE 4	Used as emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
	Stearyl Ether	9005-00-9		Acconon® SA-4	Nonionic emulsifier and wetting agent. Used in bath products as well as cleansing products such as cold creams and cleansing lotions.
PEG-5	C12-C18 Alcohol			ISOXAL -12	O/W non-ionic co-emulsifier and solubilizer. It is solid and soluble in triglycerides, glycerol, propylene glycol as well as partially soluble in mineral oils.
	Castor Oil	61791-12-6	PEG-5 CASTOR OIL	EtocasTM 5; Surfactol® 318	O/W co-emulsifier, w/o coemulsifier and dispersing agent. Used in skin care creams, lotions, bath products, sprayable emulsions, eyecare, feet, hands, nails and sun protection.
	Cocamine		PEG-5 COCAMINE	Protox C-5	Acts as emulsifer, anti-irritant, neutralizing agent, anti-static agent, a foam booster and a mild detergent.
	Laurate	9004-81-3		Jeemate 200-ML	Emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
	Oleammonium Methosulfate	64611-81-0	PEG-5 OLEAMMONIUM METHOSULFATE	Accoquat® OMS-5	An easy-to-use organic quaternary ammonium compound derived from oleic acid. Acts as water-soluble conditioning and light moisturizing agent.
	Oleate		PEG-5 OLEATE	HETOXAMATE MO - 5	Emulsifier, surfactant and coupling agent.
	Rapeseed Sterol	68441-03-2	PPG-5-LAURETH-5	Generol® R E5	Nonionic co-emulsifier for the preparation of cosmetic emulsions of the type W/O.
	Soyamine	61791-24-0		Ethomeen® SV/25	Resin neutralizer, rheology modifier, surfactant, emulsifier and wetting agent. It is used in a variety of hair care application areas.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-5	Stearate	9004-99-3	PEG-5 STEARATE	Hetoxamate SA-5	Surfactant/emulsifier for ointments, creams, lotions, face moisturizers, and other skin care products.
	Stearyl Ammonium Lactate	55896-85-0	PEG-5 STEARYL AMMONIUM LACTATE	Genamin® KSL	Antistatic agent. Used in hair finishing rinses, liquid setting lotions, conditioning shampoos, hair colourants, hair tonics and all hair after-treatment products.
Dihydroxypropyl PEG-5	Linoleammonium Chloride	168677-75-6	DIHYDROXYPROPYL PEG-5 LINOLEAMMONIUM CHLORIDE	IncroquatTM SL-5; Cola® Quat SLCC	Conditioning agent. Gives lubricity and has very good wet comb properties. Compatible with anionics. Used in bath & shower products.
PEG-6		25322-68-2; 25322-68-3	PEG-6	Pluracare® E 300; Sabopeg 300; Jeechem 300	Cosmetic formulations. Acts as a solvent and humectant. Possesses nonirritating and moisturizing properties.
	Caprylic/Capric Glycerides	52504-24-2	PEG-6 CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC GLYCERIDES	Saboderm CC; Oxypon CC6; Tegosoft® GMC 6; DERMAROL 6CC	Ointments, creams, milks and toiletries.
	Cocamide			Amidet® A/18	Non-ionic surfactant used as emulsifier and detergent. Used in hair care.
	Dioleate	9005-07-06	PEG-6 DIOLEATE	Dub DO PEG-6	Emulsifier. Used in cosmetic products.
	Oleamine		PEG-6 OLEAMINE	Sabopal NO 6	Alkaline emulsions like hair-dye creams or gels.
	Oleate	9004-99-0; 60344-26-5; 9004-96-0	PEG-6 OLEATE	Jeemate 300-OC; Hydriol® OP.3; Nikkol MYO-6	Emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
	Sorbitan Oleate	9005-65-6	PEG-6 SORBITAN OLEATE	Nikkol TO-106V	Used in cosmetics.
	Sorbitan Stearate	9005-67-8	PEG-6 SORBITAN STEARATE	Nikkol TS-106V	Used in cosmetics.
	Stearate		PEG-6 STEARATE	Jeemate 300-DPS; Sabowax SE 6	Emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
Almond oil PEG-6	Esters		ALMOND OIL PEG-6 ESTERS	Saboderm AMD	Ointments, creams, milks and toiletries.
Hydrogenated palm/palm kernel oil PEG-6	Esters		HYDROGENATED PALM/PALM KERNEL OIL PEG-6 ESTERS	Dub G1218 A	Emollient. Increasing penetration. Used in milk and cream.
PEG-7	Amodimethicone		PEG-7 AMODIMETHICONE	SILSENSETM A-21 SPECIALTY SILICONE	Used in aqueous systems including shampoos, rinse-out conditioners, leave-in conditioners, styling products, body washes, bath gels, liquid soaps and bubble baths, body washes.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-7	Dimeticone Beeswax			Beeswax 6423 WD	O/W-emulsions and lipsticks.
	Glyceryl Cocoate	68553-03-7; 68201-46-7; 68105-29-1	PEG-7 GLYCERYL COCOATE	Emanon® HE; Jeechem GC-7; Saboderm HE; Sterol LG/492; CETAROL HE 7	Emollient. Is non-ionic surfactant, perfumes and extracts solubilizer. Used in hair care, men’s grooming products, skin care, bath and shower products.
	Glyceryl Soyate		PEG-7 GLYCERYL SOYATE	CHEMONICTM SI-7 SURFACTANT	Used in shampoos, body washes, shower gel formulations and other personal care formulations. Acts as a nonionic surfactant derived from soy oil.
	Hydrogenated Castor Oil	61788-85-0	PEG-7 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL	CroduretTM 7; Cremophor® Wo 7	W/O emulsifer, particulary recommended for lotions. Used for baby care, body care, facial care, sun care, eye products, facial make-up, lip products, shower gel/body.
	Olivate	226708-41-4	PEG-7 OLIVATE	Olivem 300	Used in cosmetic formulations.
Ammonium dimethicone PEG-7	Sulfate		AMMONIUM DIMETHICONE PEG-7 SULFATE	SILSENSETM SA-1	Used in shampoos, conditioners, body washes, gels, mousses and styling products. Acts as a solubilizer, conditioning and complexing agent.
Dimethicone PEG-7	Avocadoate		DIMETHICONE PEG-7 AVOCADOATE	SILSENSETM DW-AV	Used in hair and skin care. Acts as an emollient, co-emulsifier and a surfactant. Possesses conditioning and spreading properties.
	Cocoate		DIMETHICONE PEG-7 COCOATE	SILSENSE® SW-12 SPECIALTY SILICONE	Used in hair and skin and may be used in products including creams, body lotions, after-shave balms and gels, shampoos and conditioners. Acts as a conditioning agent.
	Isostearate		DIMETHICONE PEG-7 ISOSTEARATE	SILSENSE® DW-18 SPECIALTY SILICONE	Used in creams, body lotions, after-shave balms and gels, shampoos and conditioners. Acts as a lubricant and emollient.
	Olivate		DIMETHICONE PEG-7 OLIVATE	SILSENSETM DW-O	Used in skin care and hair care like shampoos and conditioners. Acts as a co-emulsifier and an emollient.
	Phosphate	132207-31-9	DIMETHICONE PEG-7 PHOSPHATE	Pecosil® PS-150	Provide greater substantivity, enhanced smoothing and slip while retaining its water-solubility property for ease of formulation.
	Phthalate		DIMETHICONE PEG-7 PHTHALATE	SILSENSETM CA-1	Used in shampoos, conditioners, body washes, gels, mousses and styling products. Acts as a conditioning and complexing agent.
	Succinate		DIMETHICONE PEG-7 SUCCINATE	SILSENSETM CA-2	Used in shampoos, conditioners, body washes, gels, mousses and styling products. Acts as a conditioning and complexing agent.
Olive oil PEG-7	Esters	103819-46-1	OLIVE OIL PEG-7 ESTERS	Beautyolea S3; Olivatis 1	Acts as a secondary surfactant and emulsifier or co-emulsifier in O/W systems. It is obtained from pure italian olive oil.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
Sodium PEG-7	Olive Oil Carboxylate	226416-05-3	SODIUM PEG-7 OLIVE OIL CARBOXYLATE	Olivem 400	Used as mild surfactant in hair and skin care products.
Steardimonium Hydroxypropyl PEG-7	Dimethicone Phosphate Chloride	220714-63-6	STEARDIMONIUM HYDROXYPROPYL PEG-7 DIMETHICONE PHOSPHATE CHLORIDE	Pecosil® PSQ-418	Film forming and emollient. Used in shampoos and conditioners.
PEG-8		25322-68-3	PEG-8	Sympatens PEG-400; Pluracare® E 400; Jeechem 400; Sabopeg 400	Polyethylenglycol with approx molecular weight 400 (8 EO). Re-fatting agent. Emulsions Liquid products Lotions.
	Beewax		PEG-8 BEESWAX	Wax -PEG-8 Beeswax; Corum 2680; Dub CIRE A	Used in creams, lotions, make-ups, hair care, mascaras, lipsticks, lip-balms and sunscreen products.
	C12-C20 Alkyl Ester			XALIFIN -15; XALIFIN 15 N-P	O/W and w/o emulsifier as well as solubilizer. It is the most histophilic of known emulsifiers. Used in o/w emulsions.
	Cellulose			IDRORAMNOSAN	Gelling agent, humectant and viscosity regulator for emulsions (easily dispersed in water, relatively short dissolving time).
	Diisostearate		PEG-8 DIISOSTEARATE	Nikkol CDIS-400	Emulsifier.
	Dilaurate	9005-02-01	PEG-8 DILAURATE	HallStar® PEG 400 DL; Jeemate 400 DL; Saboderm PDC	Biodegradable emulsifier (o/w), co-emulsifier, emollient, lubricant and spreading agent. Used in bath additives, facial cleansers, facial skin care and hand & body care.
	Dimethicone Olivate		DIMETHICONE PEG-8 AVOCADOATE	Silwax® WD-AV	Used in creams, body lotions, after-shave balms and gels, shampoos and conditioners. Possesses tack reducer and gloss enhancer.
	Dioleate	9005-07-06	PEG-8 DIOLEATE	HallStar® PEG 400 DO; Jeemate 400-DO; Cithrol 4DO	Emollient, emulsifying agent (o/w) and lubricant. Used in eye area color cosmetics, facial skin care as well as in hand & body care.
	Distearate	9005-08-07	PEG-8 DISTEARATE	HallStar® PEG 400 DS; Jeemate 400 DS; Pegosperse® 400 DS; Nikkol CDS-400	Emulsifier (o/w), emollient, opacifying agent and/or conditioning agent in various products. Is biodegradable and plant derived / vegetal based.
	Dodecenylsuccinate		PEG-8 DODECENYLSUCCIN ATE	Surfine SM 2030	Used in shower gels, baby products, hypoallergenic products, make up removers, bubble baths, shampoos and body washes. Acts as surfactant and an emulsifier.
	Glyceryl Laurate		PEG-8 GLYCERYL LAURATE	GlyceroxTM L8	O/W emulsifier. Superfatting agent and solubiliser in aqueous and aqueous alcoholic preparations. Emollient in creams and lotions. Dispersant and wetting agent.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-8	Isocetyl/Isostearyl Ether Stearate			ISOXAL -E	O/W emulsifier and solubilizer. It is solid and soluble in triglycerides, mineral oils and fatty esters.
	Laurate	9004-81-3	PEG-8 LAURATE	HallStar® PEG 400 ML; Jeemate 400-ML	Emulsifier (o/w), emollient and lubricant. Is biodegradable and plant derived / vegetal based. Used in after sun skin care, beach wear sun care, daily wear sun care.
	Oleate	9004-96-0; 61791-00-2	PEG-8 OLEATE	Jeemate 400-OC; Hydriol® OP.4; Alkamuls® 400 MO	Emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
	Silane		PEG-8 METHYL ETHER TRIETHOXYSILANE	BGBO-SW2	Hydrophilic coating for pigments and powders.
	Stearate		PEG-8 STEARATE	Jeemate 400-DPS; Sabowax SE 8	Emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
	Trisiloxane			SM3340P	Wetting agent and surfactant having very low surface tension. Compatible for Oil and water coupling. Imparts soft silky feel, long-lasting color protection.
Apricot Kernel Oil PEG-8	Esters		APRICOT KERNEL OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Apricot PE8	Obtained by trans-esterification between PEG-8 and apricot kernel oil. Used in shampoos for dry and damaged hair, bath products, creams for face.
Argan Oil PEG-8	Esters		ARGAN OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Argan PE8	Used in shampoos for dry and damaged hair, bath products, face hygiene, hand care and care creams.
Avocado Oil PEG-8	Esters		AVOCADO OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Avocado PE8	Used in shampoos for damaged hair, bath products, products for aging skin and products for around the eyes.
Babassu oil PEG-8	Esters			Viatenza® Cupuacu PE8	Used in shampoos for damaged hair, bath products, cleansing wipes and milks, personal and face hygeine products.
Baobab Oil PEG-8	Esters			Viatenza® Baobab PE8	Used in bath products, shampoos, cleansing wipes and milks, hand care products, personal and face hygeine products.
Bertholletia Excelsa Seed Oil - PEG 8	Esters		BERTHOLLETIA EXCELSA SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Hydramazon Excelsa	Used in shampoos, liquid and bar soaps, skin cleansers and toners, anti-wrinkle creams and lotions, baby products and hair conditioning gels.
Bitter Cherry Seed Oil PEG-8	Esters		BITTER CHERRY SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Cherry PE8	Used in shampoos for dry hair, bath products, sun care, face hygiene and in creams for dry.
Borage Seed Oil PEG-8	Esters		BORAGE SEED OIL POLYGLYCERYL-6 ESTERS	Viatenza® Borage PO6	Used in shampoos for dry and damaged hair, bath products, care creams for dry and damaged skin.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
Buriti Oil PEG-8	Esters			Viatenza® Buriti PE8	Used in shampoos for damaged hair, bath products, personal and face hygeine products, cleansing wipes and milks.
Cocoa butter PEG-8	Esters			Viatenza® Cocoa PE8	Used in shampoos for damaged hair, bath products, cleansing wipes and milks, personal and face hygeine product.
Dimethicone PEG-8	Amine			Silamine® C-300	It is silicone active, a unique patented water dispersible silicone amine, which provides conditioning, lubricity, softening, improved combability and manageability to hair.
	Beeswax		DIMETHICONE PEG-8 BEESWAX	ULTRABEE® WD SILICONE	Used in aftershave balms, mild cleansers, makeup removers, creams and lotions, shampoos and conditioners. Acts as an emollient and surfactant.
	Lanolate		DIMETHICONE PEG-8 LANOLATE	Lanosil®	Acts as an excellent skin conditioning emollient and an effective hair conditioning agent. Provides good shine with an excellent soft and velvety after feel.
	Meadowfoamate		DIMETHICONE PEG-8 MEADOWFOAMATE	Fancorsil® LIM-1	Is manufactured by complexing the fatty acid of the natural triglyceride meadowfoam seed oil (Limnanthes Alba) with silicone.
	Polyacrylate			SilsoftTM Surface	Acts as a film former. Possesses non-transfer capabilities with excellent feel and water resistance. May improve wearability in cosmetic applications.
	Succinate		DIMETHICONE PEG-8 SUCCINATE	Silube® CS-I	Used in deodorant sticks, fragrance oils, hair conditioner, creams and lotions. Reduces tack and soapy feel. Aids in reducing tack and stickiness.
Disodium PEG-8	Palm Glycerides Sulfosuccinate		DISODIUM PEG-8 PALM GLYCERIDES SULFOSUCCINATE	Sabosol RSS	Used in shampoos, bubble-baths and mild detergents. Provides soft and uniform foam. Possesses good skin feel.
Grape Seed Oil PEG-8	Esters		GRAPE SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Grape PE8	Used in shampoos for dry and damaged hair, bath products, face care, hand care, daily and emollient cream.
Hazel Seed Oil PEG-8	Esters		HAZEL SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Hazel PE8	Used in shampoos for dry and damaged hair bath products, dry face and hand creams and in personal.
Hemp Seed Oil PEG-8	Esters			Viatenza® Hemp PE8	Used in shampoos for dry and damaged hair, bath products, face care, personal hygeine and day creams.
Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil PEG-8	Esters		MACADAMIA TERNIFOLIA SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Macadamia PE8	Used in shampoos for damaged hair, bath products, creams for dry and aged skin.
Mafura Butter PEG-8	Esters			Viatenza® Mafura PE8	Used in shampoos, bath products, personal and face hygeine products, cleansing wipes and milks.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
Mongongo Nut Oil PEG-8	Esters			Viatenza® Mongongo PE8	Used in shampoos, bath products, personal and face hygeine products, cleansing wipes and milks.
Olive Oil PEG-8	Esters		OLIVE OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Olive PE8	Used in shampoos for dry and damaged hair, bath products, face care, day creams, emollient, personal and face.
Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil - PEG 8	Esters		ORBIGNYA OLEIFERA SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Hydramazon Oleifera	Used in shampoos, liquid and bar soaps, skin toning and cleansing emulsions. Acts as a natural, vegetable-derived surfactant, anti-irritant and emollient.
Pumpkin Seed Oil PEG-8	Esters		PUMPKIN SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Pumpkin PE8	Used in shampoos for dry and damaged hair, bath products, body and face creams and in personal.
Rosa Rubiginosa Seed Oil PEG-8	Esters		ROSA RUBIGINOSA SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Rose PE8	Used in shampoos for dry and damaged hair, bath products, day creams for dry and damaged skin.
Safflower Seed Oil PEG-8	Esters		SAFFLOWER SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Safflower PE8	Used in shampoos for dry and damaged hair, bath products, face care, creams for dry skin.
Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil PEG-8	Esters		SCLEROCARYA BIRREA SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Marula PE8	Used in shampoos, bath products, personal and face hygeine products, cleansing wipes and milks.
Sesame Oil PEG-8	Esters		SESAME SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Sesame PE8	Used in shampoos, bath products, personal and face hygeine products, cleansing wipes and milks, face care product.
Shea Butter PEG-8	Esters		SHEA BUTTER PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Shea PE8	Used in shampoos for damaged hair, bath products, body products, personal and face hygeine products.
Soybean Oil PEG-8	Esters		SOYBEAN OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Soybean PE8	Used in shampoos, bath products, body products, personal and face hygeine products, cleansing wipes and milks.
Sunflower Seed Oil PEG-8	Esters		SUNFLOWER SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Sunflower PE8	Used in shampoos for dry and damaged hair, bath products, personal and face hygiene and day creams.
Sweet Almond Oil PEG-8	Esters		SWEET ALMOND OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Almond PE8	Used in shampoos, bath products, personal hygeine and face hygeine and emollient creams for face.
Watermelon Seed Oil PEG-8	Esters		WATERMELON SEED OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Kalahari Melon PE8	Used in shampoos for damaged hair, bath products, personal and face hygeine products.
Wheat Germ Oil PEG-8	Esters		WHEAT GERM OIL PEG-8 ESTERS	Viatenza® Wheat PE8	Used in shampoos for dry and damaged hair, bath products, face hygiene, emollient creams for face.
Ximenia Oil PEG-8	Esters			Viatenza® Ximenia PE8	Used in shampoos, bath products, body products, personal and face hygeine products, baby care products.
PEG-9	Castor Oil	61791-12-6	PEG-9 CASTOR OIL	Hetoxide C-9	Non-ionic surfactant. It is based on hydrophobe which is then reacted with ethylene oxide to accomplish specific tasks of wetting, emulsification, detergency, etc.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-9	Isostearate	56002-14-3	PEG-9 ISOSTEARATE	HETOXAMATE MI - 9	Surfactant, emulsifier and coupling agent.
	Laurate	9004-81-3	PEG-9 LAURATE	HETOXAMATE LA - 9	O/W emulsifier, surfactant and coupling agent. Polyoxylated derivatives of lauric, oleic, or stearic acid are emulsifiers, humectants, and coupling agents.
	Lauryl Ether			BrijTM L9	Anti-irritant ingredient for use in skin soothing and local anaesthetic medicated creams.
	Stearate	9004-99-3	PEG-9 STEARATE	Hetoxamate SA-9	It is generally used as a surfactant/emulsifier for ointments, creams, lotions, face moisturizers, and other skin care products.
Lauryl PEG-9	Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone				A water soluble silicone copolyol surfactant used as plasticizer and solubilizer in cosmetic systems. Used in hair, skin and body care.
	Polydimethylsiloxyethy Dimethicone/Isooctyl Palmitate		CETYL PEG/PPG-10/1 DIMETHICONE	Silok® 2216C	A highly efficient w/o emulsifier and a great water repellent. Possesses excellent stability for emulsion.
PEG-10	C12-C18 Alcohol			ISOXAL -11; ISOXAL -11 P-F	O/W non-ionic co-emulsifier and solubilizer. It is solid and soluble in triglycerides, mineral oils, glycerol and water.
	Dimethicone		PEG-10 DIMETHICONE	Gransurf 77; Emulsil® S-397	Used in hair care. Offers lubricious feeling and substantivity. Adds gloss and reduces static.
	Laurate	9004-81-3	PEG-10 LAURATE	Nikkol MYL-10	Hydrophilic emulsifier obtained by the addition of ethylene oxide to fatty acids.
	Oleamine		PEG-10 OLEAMINE	Sabopal NO 10	Used for alkaline emulsions like hair-dye creams or gels.
	Oleate	9004-96-0	PEG-10 OLEATE	Nikkol MYO-10	Hydrophilic emulsifier obtained by the addition of ethylene oxide to fatty acids.
	Polyglyceryl-2 Laurate		PEG-10 POLYGLYCERYL-2 LAURATE	Hostacerin® DGL	Used in liquid and creamy oil-in-water emulsions. Acts as a liquid emulsifier with allround emulsifying effect and as solubilizer for ethereal oils.
	Rapeseed Sterol	68441-03-2	PPG-5-LAURETH-5	Generol® R E10	Used in cosmetic emulsions of the type O/W. Acts as a nonionic co-emulsifier.
	Sorbitan Laurate		PEG-10 SORBITAN LAURATE	Liposorb® L-10	Used for cosmetics. Offers emulsifying, thickening, lubricating, and anti-static effects.
	Stearate	9004-99-3	PEG-10 STEARATE	Nikkol MYS-10	Hydrophilic emulsifier obtained by the addition of ethylene oxide to fatty acids.
	Sunflower Glycerides	180254-52-8	PEG-10 SUNFLOWER GLYCERIDES	FLORASOLVS® PEG-10 SUNFLOWER	Co-emulsifying agent, emollient, feel modification/enhancement agent, fragrance solubilizer and transfer, and superfatting agent.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
Dihydroxypropyl PEG-10	Stearammonium Chloride			VegeshineTM Q10	Used for skin care, hair shampoos, conditioners, styling gels, other hair care products.
Dimethicone PEG-10	Phosphate	132207-31-9	DIMETHICONE PEG-10 PHOSPHATE	Pecosil® PS-200	Can be a "structural" component of a formulation and is ideally suited for solid delivery systems like lipsticks, makeup and anti-perspirants/deodorants.
Lauryl PEG-10	Methyl Ether Dimethicone		LAURYL PEG-10 METHYL ETHER DIMETHICONE	Silok® 2205	Acts as an emulsifier for o/w system and water-in-silicone oil system. Also acts as a resin plasticizer for hair styling products.
	Tris(Trimethylsiloxy) Silylethyl Dimethicone			Dow Corning® ES-5300 Formulation Aid	Acts as a silicone w/o and w/si emulsifier and dispersing agent. It is a non-diluted and low viscosity silicone surfactant.
PEG-11	Methyl Ether Dimethicone		PEG-11 METHYL ETHER DIMETHICONE	Gransurf 71	Used in hair care. Offers lubricious feeling. Adds gloss and reduces static.
PEG-12		25322-68-3	PEG-12	Sabopeg 600; Pluracare® E 600; Pluracare® E 600 NF; Jeechem 600	Used in cosmetic preparations. Acts as a solvent and a humectant. Possesses nonirritating and moisturizing properties.
	Cellulose				Acts as a gelling agent, humectant and viscosity regulator for emulsions (easily dispersed in water with a relatively short dissolving time).
	Dilaurate	9005-02-01	PEG-12 DILAURATE	HallStar® PEG 600 DL; Jeemate 600-DL	Emulsifier (o/w), co-emulsifier and emollient. Is biodegradable and plant derived / vegetal based. Used in after sun skin care, foot care as well as in hand & body care.
	Dimethicone		PEG-12 DIMETHICONE	BRB 526; FM-E193	Surfactant. Offers smooth and silky feel, spreadability in body care as well as in color cosmetics. Also provides soft & silky feel, wet- & dry combing in hair care.
	Dioleate	9005-07-06	PEG-12 DIOLEATE	HallStar® PEG 600 DO; Jeemate 600 DO	Emulsifier (o/w), co-emulsifier and emollient. Is biodegredable and plant derived / vegetal based. Used in bath additives, facial skin care, foot care, hand & body care.
	Distearate	9005-08-07	PEG-12 DISTEARATE	HallStar® PEG 600 DS; Jeemate 600 DS; Hetoxamate 600 DS	Emulsifier (o/w), co-emulsifier and emollient. Is biodegredable and plant derived / vegetal based. Possesses hair cuticle protection.
	Ditallate	61791-01-3	PEG-12 DITALLATE	Pegosperse® 600 DOT	Tall oil based surfactant.
	Laurate	9005-02-01	PEG-12 LAURATE	HallStar® PEG 600 ML; Pegosperse® 600 ML	Emulsifier (o/w), emollient and co emulsifying agent. Is biodegradable and plant derived / vegetal based. Used in after sun skin care, facial skin care, hand & body care.
	Oleate	9004-96-0	PEG-12 OLEATE	Jeemate 600-OC	Emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-12	Stearate	9004-99-3	PEG-12 STEARATE	Jeemate 600-DPS	Emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
Disodium PEG-12	Dimethicone Sulfosuccinate	157090-37-4		Cola® Mate SI	Extra mild surfactant derived from watersoluble silicone copolymer. Is useful in non-irritating skin cleansing and specialty applications.
PEG-14	Dimethicone		PEG-14 DIMETHICONE	Abil® B 8843	Used in hair styling formulations, liquid foundations, shampoos, shower and bath preparations and shaving foam. Offers good foaming properties.
	Isostearate	56002-14-3		HETOXAMATE MI - 14	Surfactant, emulsifier and coupling agent. Polyoxylated derivatives of lauric, oleic, or stearic acid are emulsifiers, humectants, and coupling agents.
	Oleate		PEG-14 OLEATE	HETOXAMATE MO - 14	O/W emulsifier, surfactant and coupling agent.
	Pentaerythritol Tetra Caprylate/Caprate (Proposed)			AXIMOL PTC-14	Emollient. Belonging to a new class of esters that have a very low viscosity for their molecular weights.
	Stearate		PEG-14 STEARATE	HETOXAMATE MS - 14	Humectant, solubilizer, surfactant, and coupling agent.
PEG-15	Castor Oil	61791-12-6	PEG-15 CASTOR OIL	EtocasTM 15; ALKEST® CSO 150	Dispersing agent, o/w emulsifier, solubiliser and w/o coemulsifier. Used in skin care creams, lotions, bath products, shower gel/body wash, liquid soaps, facial wash.
	Cocamine		PEG-15 COCAMINE	Sabopal NC 15	Alkaline emulsions, like hair-dye creams or gels.
	Cocomonium Chloride		PEG-15 COCOMONIUM CHLORIDE	Maquat® C-15	Used in 2-in-1 shampoos, restorative conditioners, conditioning hairspray, crèmes and lotions, hair conditioners and rinses.
	Cocomonium Methosulfate		PEG-15 COCOMONIUM METHOSULFATE	Maquat® C-15MS	Used in 2-in-1 shampoos, restorative conditioners, conditioning hairspray, crèmes and lotions, hair conditioners and rinses.
	Glyceryl Isostearate		PEG-15 GLYCERYL ISOSTEARATE	Oxypon 2145	Used in shampoos, foam baths, shower gels, intimate cleansers, baby care products.
	Glyceryl Laurate		PEG-15 GLYCERYL LAURATE	Glycerox L15	Used in shampoos, bath foams and oils, skin care creams and lotions, colognes, aftershaves and other alcoholic systems, colour cosmetics and antiperspirants.
	Glyceryl Stearate		PEG-15 GLYCERYL STEARATE	Nikkol TMGS-15V	Used in cosmetics.
	Hydrogenated Tallowamine		PEG-15 HYDROGENATED TALLOW AMINE	Protox T-15	Used in shampoos. Acts as emulsifer, anti-irritant, neutralizing agent, anti-static agent, a foam booster and a mild detergent.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-15	Laurate	61791-29-5		Jeemate 600 ML	Emulsifier and dispersing agent for creams, lotions and bath oils.
	Monomerate			HETOXAMATE MA - 15	Surfactant, emulsifier and coupling agent. Polyoxylated derivatives of lauric, oleic, or stearic acid are emulsifiers, humectants, and coupling agents.
	Tallow Amine		PEG-15 TALLOW AMINE	Sabopal NS 15	Alkaline emulsions like hair-dye creams or gels.
PEG-16		25322-68-3	PEG-16	Polyglykol 800	Used in tooth pastes and perfumes. Acts as a humectant, solubilizer, antistatic agent and fixative. Posesses softening, non-irritating and cleansing properties.
	Almond Glycerides			MULSIFAN CAO 16	Co-emulsifier. It is an ethoxylated, virgin almond oil with non-ionic character supporting both, the formation of stable w/o as well as o/w emulsions.
	Hydrogenated Castor Oil		PEG-16 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL	Protachem CAH-16	Used in personal care products. Acts as non-ionic surfactant, emulsifier, solubilizer and conditioner.
	Macadamia Glycerides	220459-99-4	PEG-16 MACADAMIA GLYCERIDES	FLORASOLVS® PEG-16 MACADAMIA	Co-emulsifying agent, emollient, fragrance solubilizer, moisturizing agent, solubilizing agent, and superfatting agent.
PEG-20		25322-68-3	PEG-20	Polyglykol 1000	Used in tooth pastes and perfumes. Acts as a humectant, solubilizer, antistatic agent and fixative. Posesses softening, non-irritating and cleansing properties.
	Almond Glycerides	124046-50-0	PEG-20 ALMOND GLYCERIDES	Crovol A-40	Used in soap formulations, bath oil products, styling mousses, water-based aerosols, antiperspirants and astringents. Acts as a high HLB nonionic emulsifier and conditioner.
	Glyceryl Laurate		PEG-20 GLYCERYL LAURATE	Tagat® L2	Surfactant and solubilizer in shampoos, shower and foam bath preparations and O/W emulsions. Possesses foam enhancing properties.
	Glyceryl Oleate		PEG-20 GLYCERYL OLEATE	Tagat® O 2 V	Used in shampoos, shower and foam bath preparations and O/W emulsions.
	Glyceryl Stearate	68153-76-4	PEG-20 GLYCERYL STEARATE; PPG-5-LAURETH-5	Tagat® S 2; Cutina® E 24	Emulsifier and solubilizer for shampoos, shower and foam bath preparations and O/W emulsions.
	Hydrogenated Lanolin		PEG-20 HYDROGENATED LANOLIN	Fancol® HL-20	Super-fatting agent and a solubilizer. Helps for micro emulsions. A gelling agent for transparent gels. Used in creams, lotions and decorative cosmetics.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-20	Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate		PEG-20 METHYL GLUCOSE SESQUISTEARATE	GLUCAMATETM SSE-20 EMULSIFIER	Used in makeup and in skin care like creams and lotions. Acts as an oil in water emulsifier, cleanser and stabilizer.
	Oleamine		PEG-20 OLEAMINE	Sabopal NO 20	Used for alkaline emulsions like hair-dye creams or gels.
	Oleate	9004-96-0	PEG-20 OLEATE	Hydriol® OP.10	Emulsifier. Used in cosmetics.
	Sorbitan Isostearate	66794-58-9	PEG-20 SORBITAN ISOSTEARATE	Nikkol TI-10V	Used in cosmetics.
	Stearate	9004-99-3	PEG-20 STEARATE	Cerasynt® 840; Sabowax SE 20	Used in personal care. Acts as an emulsifier and superfatting agent. Offers increased viscosity and stability.
Bis-PEG-20	Dimethicone		BIS-PEG-20 DIMETHICONE	SF 1388	Enhances the soft silky feel and boosting foam in water base products such as shampoos, conditioners and body wash as well as wash ability of antiperspirants.
Tribehenin PEG-20	Esters		TRIBEHENIN PEG-20 ESTERS	Emulium® 22	Used in skin care, sun care, hair care and makeup applications. Offers evanescent feel. Improves spreadability and boosts SPF.
PEG-22	Laurate	61791-29-5		Jeemate 1000-ML	Emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
	Oleate	9004-96-0		Jeemate 1000-OC	Emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
	Stearate	9004-99-3		Jeemate 1000-DPS	Emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
	Tallow Amine			Sabopal NS 22	Alkaline emulsions like hair-dye creams or gels.
PEG-23	Lauryl Ether		LAURETH-23	BrijTM L23; Polyoxyl lauryl ether NF	Nonionic surfactant, solubiliser and wetting agent.
PEG-24	Dimethicone			FM-2501; Cosmethicone® SF-230	Emulsifiable and imparts soft and glossy feel in product.
	Hydrogenated Lanolin	68648-27-1	PEG-24 HYDROGENATED LANOLIN	Fancol® HL-24; Supersat AWS-24	Super-fatting agent and a solubilizer. Helps for micro emulsions. A gelling agent for transparent gels. Used in creams, lotions, decorative cosmetics.
PEG-25	Hydrogenated Castor Oil		PEG-25 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL	CrodureTM 25	Co-solubiliser and w/o emulsifier. Helps to control the consistency of gel. Used in bath as well as shower products, conditioners, shampoos and styling products.
	Oleamine		PEG-25 OLEAMINE	Sabopal NO 25	Alkaline emulsions like hair-dye creams or gels.
	Paba	113010-52-9	PEG-25 PABA	Uvinul® P25	Used in skin cosmetics, hair care like gels and shampoos, colorant, setting lotions, normal and gloss hair sprays. Acts as a UV-B filter.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-25	Stearate	9004-99-3	PEG-25 STEARATE	Nikkol MYS-25	Hydrophilic emulsifier obtained by the addition of ethylene oxide to fatty acids.
	Tallow Amine			Sabopal NS 25	Alkaline emulsions like hair-dye creams or gels.
PEG-26	Glycerine		GLYCERETH-26		Emollients, emulsifiers, thickeners, stabilizers, opacifiers and pearlescent agents for such products as creams, lotions, shaving creams and cream shampoos.
PEG-27	Lanolin		PEG-27 LANOLIN		Super-fatting conditioner and moisturizer. Restores lost lipids and imparts sheen. Used in hair care and skin care formulations.
PEG-29	Castor Oil		PEG-29 CASTOR OIL	EtocasTM 29	Dispersing agent, o/w emulsifier, solubiliser, w/o co-emulsifier. Used in skin care creams, lotions, bath products, shower gel/body wash, liquid soaps and facial wash.
PEG-30	Almond Glycerides			MULSIFAN CAO 30	Co-emulsifier. It is an ethoxylated, virgin almond oil with non-ionic character used for the preparation of o/w emulsions.
	Castor Oil	61791-12-6	PEG-30 CASTOR OIL	Sabowax EL 30; Alkamuls® B	Used in toiletries, ointments and in transparent gels.
	Dipolyhydroxystearate		PEG-30 DIPOLYHYDROXYST EARATE	Sabowax PIS; Simaline WO; CithrolTM DPHS	Used for medium viscosity creams. Acts as a water-in-oil emulsifier, to stabilize all types of oil effectively at low concentrations with textures ranging from lotion to thick cream.
	Glyceryl Cocoate		PEG-30 GLYCERYL COCOATE	Rewoderm® LI 63	Used in baby shampoo formulations, oil and bath formulations. Possesses very mild. Offers good skin compatibility and mucous membrane compatibility.
	Glyceryl Cocoate	68201-46-7	PEG-30 GLYCERYL COCOATE	Jeechem GC-30	Used in baby shampoos, baby washes, sensitive skin formulations, fragrances and oils.
	Glyceryl Soyate		PEG-30 GLYCERYL SOYATE	CHEMONICTM SI-63 SURFACTANT	Used in baby shampoos, baby washes, sensitive skin formulations, fragrances and oils and other mild personal care formulations. Acts as a nonionic surfactant.
	Glyceryl Stearate		PEG-30 GLYCERYL STEARATE	Tagat® S	Used in shampoos, shower and foam bath preparations and O/W emulsions.
	Lanolin	61790-81-6	PEG-30 LANOLIN	BELLPOL L-30	Non-ionic emolliating surfactant that can be used as a hydrophilic emulsifier. It is obtained from secretion of sheep’s sebaceous glands.
	Oleamine		PEG-30 OLEAMINE	Sabopal NO 30	Alkaline emulsions like hair-dye creams or gels.
	Tallow Amine		PEG-30 TALLOW AMINE	Sabopal NS 30	Alkaline emulsions like hair-dye creams or gels.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-32		25322-68-3	PEG-32	Sympatens PEG-1500 G; RenexTM PEG 1500; Jeechem 1450; Sabopeg 1500; Pluracare® E 1450 N NF	Polyethylenglycol with approx. molecular weight 1500 (32 EO). Emulsions Liquid products Lotions.
	Stearate			Jeemate 1540-DPS	Emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
Sunflower Seed Oil PEG-32	Esters		SUNFLOWER SEED OIL PEG-32 ESTERS	Viatenza® Oleic Sunflower PE32	Used in shampoos for damaged hair, bath products, face care, personal and face hygeine.
PEG-35	Castor Oil		PEG-35 CASTOR OIL	EtocasTM 35	O/W emulsifier, w/o coemulsifier, solubiliser and dispersing agent. Used in skin care creams, lotions, bath products, shower gel/body wash, liquid soaps and facial wash.
	Soy Glycerides	61791-23-9	PEG-35 SOY GLYCERIDES	Acconon® S-35	Low-melt solid, water soluble vegetable oil derivative obtained from refined soybean oil. It is nonionic and compatible with other ionic species in formulation.
PEG-36	Castor Oil	61791-12-6	PEG-36 CASTOR OIL	Alpicare CO 36; ALKEST® CSO 360	Nonionic solubilizing agent for fragrances, essential oils, lipophilic actives and vitamins.
PEG-40		25322-68-3	PEG-40	Polyglykol 2000 S	Humectant, solubilizer, antistatic agent and a fixative. Posesses softening, cleansing and non-irritating properties.
	Castor Oil	61791-12-6	PEG-40 CASTOR OIL	Jeechem CA-40; Sabowax EL 40	Used for lotions, creams, hair care and lipsticks. Possesses perfume solubilizer, emollient, emulsifier, lubricant, and dispersant.
	Hydrogenated Castor Oil	61788-85-0	PEG-40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL; PPG-5-LAURETH-5	Findet® ARH/52; Akypo® ROX CO 400; Sabowax ELH 40; Cremophor® CO 40; Eumulgin® HRE 40	Non-ionic surfactant acts as extracts, perfumes and vitamins solubilizer. Used in hair care, men’s grooming products, skin care, bath and shower products.
	Lanolin	8051-82-9; 61790-81-6	PEG-40 LANOLIN	Laneto 40	Used in shampoos, conditioners, bath preparations, creams, lotions, as well as soap and detergent systems. Acts as an emollient, lubricant and solubilizer.
	Sorbitan Perisostearate		PEG-40 SORBITAN PERISOSTEARATE	Tego® SIS 40	Used in W/O skin care lotions and creams and bath products. Offers good emulsifying and solubilizing properties.
	Sorbitan Peroleate		PEG-40 SORBITAN PEROLEATE	ArlatoneTM TV	Spreading agent of exceptionally high efficiency as well as liquid W/O co-emulsifier. Used in bath & shower products, baby care, body care, facial care and sun care.
	Stearate	9004-99-3	PEG-40 STEARATE	Jeemate 2000-DPS Flake; Nikkol MYS-40; Ritox 52; Sabowax SE 40	Emulsifiers and dispersing agents for creams, lotions and bath oils.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-42	Babassu Glycerides		PEG-42 BABASSU GLYCERIDES	Crovol PK-70	Used in skin care products, detergent cleansers, bath and shower products, shampoos and conditioners, styling products, aftershaves, colognes and body sprays.
PEG-45	Palm Kernel Glycerides	124046-52-2	PEG-45 PALM KERNEL GLYCERIDES	Crovol PK-70	Used in skin care products, bath and shower products, shampoos and conditioners, styling products, aftershaves, colognes and body sprays, antiperspirants and deodorants.
	Stearate	9004-99-3	PEG-45 STEARATE	Nikkol MYS-45	Hydrophilic emulsifier obtained by the addition of ethylene oxide to fatty acids.
PEG-50	Hydrogenated Castor Oil		PEG-50 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL	Protachem CAH-50	Used in personal care products. Acts as non-ionic surfactant, emulsifier, solubilizer and conditioner.
	Hydrogenated Palmamide	544-31-0		Ethomid® HP/60	Rheology modifier, wetting agent. It is an ethoxylated amide which is used in a variety of applications to provide dispersability and rheology.
	Lanolin	61790-81-6	PEG-50 LANOLIN	BELLPOL L-50	Non-ionic emolliating surfactant that can be used as a hydrophilic emulsifier. It is obtained from secretion of sheep’s sebaceous glands.
	Shea Butter		PEG-50 SHEA BUTTER	Shebu WS	Used in water-based products, such as shampoos, conditioners, creams, lotions and other products. Acts as an emollient.
	Stearate	9004-99-3	PEG-50 STEARATE	MyrjTM S50; Ritox 53	Co-emulsifier for o/w systems and conditioning agent. Used in body care, facial care, baby care, creams, lotions, cleaners, toners, skin treatments, feet, hands.
	Tallowamine	61791-26-2 (g)		Hetoxamine T-50	Anti-static agent and as emulsifier for waxes and oils. It is formed by the reaction of fatty primary amines with ethylene oxide.
PEG-54	Castor Oil	61791-12-6	PEG-54 CASTOR OIL	ALKEST® CSO 540	Emulsifier, solubilizer, emollient, dispersing agent and humectant. It is a non-ionic surfactant.
	Hydrogenated Castor Oil		PEG-40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL	CroduretTM 54	Effective solubiliser of perfumes, essential oils and lipophilic actives for use in microemulsions. Imparts superfatting benefits in detergent systems.
PEG-55	Stearate	9004-99-3	PEG-55 STEARATE	Nikkol MYS-55	Hydrophilic emulsifier obtained by the addition of ethylene oxide to fatty acids.
PEG-60		25322-68-3	PEG-60	Polyglykol 3000 S	Acts as a slip and mold-release agent, solubilizer, carrier, thickener and antistatic agent. Posesses binding, softening and non-irritating properties.
	Almond Glycerides	124046-50-0	PEG-60 ALMOND GLYCERIDES	CrovolTM A-70	Non-ionic surfactant, emulsion stabiliser, dispersant, emollient, plasticiser, solubiliser, superfatting agent and wetting agent.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-60	Castor Oil	61791-12-6	PEG-60 CASTOR OIL	Jeechem CA-60	Used for lotions, creams, hair care and lipsticks. Possesses perfume solubilizer, emollient, emulsifier, lubricant, and dispersant.
	Corn Glycerides		PEG-60 CORN GLYCERIDES	Crovol M-70	Used in skin care products, shampoos and conditioners, bath and shower products, styling products, aftershaves, colognes and body sprays, antiperspirants and deodorants.
	Evening Primrose Glycerides		PEG-60 EVENING PRIMROSE GLYCERIDES	Crovol EP70	Used in skin care products, detergent cleansers, bath and shower products, shampoos and conditioners, styling products, aftershaves and colognes.
	Hydrogenated Castor Oil	61788-85-0	PEG-60 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL; PPG-5-LAURETH-5	Sabowax ELH 60; Cremophor® CO 60; Eumulgin® HRE 60	Used in toiletries, ointments and transparent gels.
	Lanolin	8039-09-06	PEG-60 LANOLIN	Jeelan L-60	Emulsifiers, stabilizers, emollients, moisturizers and absorption bases for creams, lotions, liquid make-up and general purpose cosmetics.
	Maracuja Glycerides			CrovolTM Maracuja	Plasticiser, solubiliser, superfatting agent, water soluble emollient and counter irritant.
PEG-75		25322-68-3	PEG-75	Sympatens PEG-4000 G; Sabopeg 4000	Polyethylenglycol with approx. molecular weight 4000 (75 EO). Emulsions Liquid products Lotions.
	Lanolin	61790-81-6; 8039-09-6; 61790-81-7; 61790-81-8	PEG-75 LANOLIN	Promollient® AL PEG-75; Jeelan L-75; Jeelan L-75/50; Findet® LN/8750	Ethoxylated derivative of lanolin which has emulsifying, solubilizing, wetting and cleansing properties and is an ideal product for soaps and cleansing gel.
	Meadowfoam Seed Oil		PEG-75 MEADOWFOAM OIL	Meadowsol® 75:75	Emulsifier. Helps disperse and wet pigments. Boosts and stabilizes the foam. Provides the emolliency, conditioning and superfatting properties.
	Shea Butter Glycerides		PEG-75 SHEA BUTTER GLYCERIDES	Crovol SB75/50	Emulsion stabiliser, wetting agent, dispersant and superfatting agent. Possesses emollient, plasticiser and solubiliser properties.
PEG-78	Glyceryl Cocoate	68201-46-7	PEG-78 GLYCERYL COCOATE	DUB CG 7	Emulsifier. Used in bath preparation, alcoholic lotion, shampoo, clear cream and surfactant for microemulsion.
PEG-80	Glyceryl Cocoate		PEG-80 GLYCERYL COCOATE	Corum 9860; CHEMONICTM LI-6875 SURFACTANT	Super-fatting agent, easily soluble in water, alcohol and the majority of organic solvents.
	Sorbitan Laurate	9005-64-5; 68154-33-6	PEG-80 SORBITAN LAURATE	Hetsorb L-80-72%; TweenTM 28; Alkamuls® PSML-80/72	Emulsifier for oils, lubricant, solvent and viscosity control agent. It is an ethoxylated sorbitan ester ideal for cosmetics and personal care formulations.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-81	Castor Oil			HETOXIDE C - 81	Humectant and solubilizer.
PEG-90		25322-68-3	PEG-90	Pluracare® E 4000 Flakes	Used in cosmetics formulations. Acts as a humectant, binder, solubilizer and absorption promoter. Possesses nonirritating and moisturizing properties.
	Apricot Kernel Glycerides				Used in skin care products, detergent cleansers, bath and shower products, shampoos and conditioners, styling products, aftershaves, colognes and body sprays.
	Diisostearate	36493-25-1	PEG-90 DIISOSTEARATE	HYDRAMOLTM PGDS ESTER	Used in hair treatment, antiperspirant and deodorant and in creamy gels. Acts as an emollient. Possesses conditioning and viscosity building properties.
PEG-100	Almond Glycerides			MULSIFAN CAO 100	Emulsifier. It is an ethoxylated, virgin sweet almond oil with non-ionic character used for the preparation of o/w emulsions.
	Stearate	9004-99-3 (generic)	PEG-100 STEARATE	HallStar® PEG 4400 MS; Jeemate 4400 DPS; Sabowax SE 100	Non-ionic emulsifier (o/w) from petrochemical and vegetal sources. Used in after sun skin care, antiperspirants, beach wear sun care, cleansing wipes.
PEG-120	Methyl Glucose Dioleate	86893-19-8	PEG-120 METHYL GLUCOSE DIOLEATE	Antil® 120 Plus; Rethick DOE120	Used in hair shampoo, shower gel, foam bath, liquid soap or hand wash paste. Offers very good thickening properties. Reduces the irritation potential of surfactants.
PEG-150		25322-68-3	PEG-150	Sabopeg 6000; Pluracare® E 6000 Flakes	Used in cosmetic formulations. Acts as a humectant, binder, solubilizers and absorption promoter. Possesses nonirritating and moisturizing properties.
	Distearate	9005-08-07	PEG-150 DISTEARATE	Rewopal® PEG 6000 DS; HallStar® PEG 6000 DS; REWOPAL® PEG 6000 DS A; HallStar® PEG 6000 DS C; Jeemate 6000-DS; Nikkol CDS-6000P	Used in baby shampoos, mild hair shampoos, foam baths and shower shampoos and skin cleansing lotions. Offers distinctive viscosity modifying effect.
	Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate	130249-48-8	PEG-150 PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRASTEARATE	CrothixTM	Rheology modifier or thickening agent. Used in hair shampoos, antidandruff shampoos, shower gels and foam baths.
	Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate	72828-11-6	PEG-150 POLYGLYCERYL-2 TRISTEARATE	Genapol® DAT 100	Used in shampoos, body washes and shower gels. Acts as an easy to handle, liquid associative thickener and conditioning agent.
	Stearate	9004-99-3	PEG-150 STEARATE	HallStar® PEG 6000 MS	Cleansing agent, co-emulsifying agent, emulsifying agent (w/o), solubilizing agent and thickener. Used in foot care, hair conditioners and hand & body care.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-175	Diisostearate		PEG-175 DIISOSTEARATE	HEST HVB	Excellent viscosity builder for shampoo, shower gel, bubble bath.
PEG-180		25322-68-3	PEG-180	Pluracare® E 8000 Flakes	Used in cosmetics formulations. Acts as a humectant, binder, solubilizer and absorption promoter. Possesses nonirritating and moisturizing properties.
PEG-200					Humectant, shower and bath products, creams and lotions, shampoos, shaving products and liquid soaps.
	Castor Oil		PEG-200 CASTOR OIL	EtocasTM 200; Protachem CA-200	O/W emulsifier. Used in bath products, liquid soaps, facial wash, hair treatments, sun protection, male grooming, baby care and hair styling.
	Glyceryl Stearate			Simulsol 220	Thickening, non-ionic surfactant foaming agent used in foaming formulas. Reduces irritation. Is preservative-free.
	Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmitate		PEG-200 HYDROGENATED GLYCERYL PALMATE	Corum 9926; Rewoderm® LI 520-70	Vegetable based emulsifier with solubilizing and thickening properties. It is very compatible to skin, mucous membrane.
	Laurate				Non-ionic wetting and dispersing agent in color cosmetics solubilizers & stabilizers.
PEG-200 USP		25322-68-3	PEG-4		Perfume fixative. Moisture-stabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin. In lotions, acts as a cleansing agent.
PEG-220		25322-68-3	PEG-220	Polyglykol 10000 P	Used in skin care. Acts as a slip and mold-release agent, solubilizer, carrier, thickener and antistatic agent. Posesses binding, softening and non-irritating properties.
PEG-240		25322-68-3	PEG-240	Polyglykol 12000 P	Used in skin care. Acts as a slip and mold-release agent, solubilizer, carrier, thickener and antistatic agent. Posesses binding, softening and non-irritating properties.
PEG-300			PEG-6	PEG-6	Humectant, hower and bath products, creams and lotions, shampoos, shaving products and liquid soaps.
PEG-300 USP			PEG-6		Humectant. Used in shower and bath products, creams and lotions, shampoos, shaving products and liquid soaps.
PEG-400			PEG-400	Protachem 400	Used in personal care products. Acts as emollient, lubricant, solvent, emulsifier and stabilizer. Posesses thickening, opacifying and surfactant properties.
PEG-400 USP			PEG-8		Humectant. Used in shower and bath products, creams and lotions, shampoos, shaving products and liquid soaps.
PEG-450		25322-68-3	PEG-450	Polyglykol 20000 P	Used in skin care. Acts as a slip and mold-release agent, solubilizer, carrier, thickener and antistatic agent. Posesses binding, softening and non-irritating properties.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	PEG-12	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-600		25322-68-3	PEG-12		Humectant, shower and bath products, creams and lotions, shampoos, shaving products and liquid soaps.
PEG-600 USP			PEG-12		Humectant. Used in shower and bath products, creams and lotions, shampoos, shaving products and liquid soaps.
PEG-800		25322-68-3	PEG-800	Polyglykol 35000 S	Used in skin care. Acts as a slip and mold-release agent, solubilizer, carrier, thickener and antistatic agent. Posesses binding, softening and non-irritating properties.
PEG-6000		25322-68-3	PEG-150		Slip and mold-release agent. Water-soluble carrier substance. Softener. Moisture-stabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin.
PEG-1000		25322-68-3	PEG-20		Perfume fixative. Softener. Moisture-stabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin. In lotions, acts as a cleansing agent.
PEG-2000		25322-68-3	PEG-40		Perfume fixative. Softener. Non-greasy lubricant. Moisturestabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin. In lotions, acts as a cleansing agent.
PEG-1500		25322-68-3	PEG-32		Perfume fixative. Softener. Non-greasy lubricant. Moisturestabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin. In lotions, acts as a cleansing agent.
PEG-1500F			PEG-32		Humectant. Used in shower and bath products, creams and lotions, shampoos, shaving products and liquid soaps.
PEG-3000		25322-68-3	PEG-60		Slip and mold-release agent. Water-soluble carrier substance. Moisture-stabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin.
PEG-3350		25322-68-3	PEG-75	Protachem 75	Softener. Slip and mold-release agent. Moisture-stabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin. Can be used in transparent toothpastes.
PEG-4000		25322-68-3	PEG-90		Slip and mold-release agent. Water-soluble carrier substance. Softener. Moisture-stabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin.
PEG-8000		25322-68-3	PEG-180		Slip and mold-release agent. Water soluble carrier substance. Softener. Moisture-stabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin.
PEG-10000		25322-68-3	PEG-220		Slip and mold-release agent. Water soluble carrier substance. Softener. Moisture-stabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-12000		25322-68-3	PEG-240		Slip and mold-release agent. Softener.Water soluble carrier substances. Moisture-stabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin.
PEG-20000		25322-68-3	PEG-350		Slip and mold-release agent. Softener. Water-soluble carrier substances. Moisture-stabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin.
PEG-35000		25322-68-3	PEG-800		Slip and mold-release agent. Water-soluble carrier substance. Softener. Moisture-stabilizing effect in creams. Leaves a pleasant feel on the skin.
PEG-2M		25322-68-3	PEG-2M	ALKOX® L-11	Emollient and lubricant. Improves wet combing and provides skin conditioning, foam stability and retention. Used in shampoos, conditioners, soap bar/liquid, lotions, creams.
PEG-5M		25322-68-3	PEG-5M	Rita PEO-1	Used in personal care products. Offers mildness, lubricity and film forming properties.
PEG-7M		25322-68-3	PEG-7M	ALKOX® E-20G	Emollient and lubricant. Improves wet combing and provides skin conditioning, foam stability and retention. Used in shampoos, conditioners, soap bar/liquid, lotions and creams.
PEG-9M		25322-68-3	PEG-9M	Rita PEO-2	Used in personal care products. Offers mildness, lubricity and film forming properties.
PEG-14M		25322-68-3	PEG-14M	ALKOX® E-45G	Emollient and lubricant. Improves wet combing and provides skin conditioning, foam stability and retention. Used in shampoos, conditioners, soap bar/liquid, lotions, creams.
PEG-20M		25322-68-3	PEG-20M	ALKOX® E-60G	Emollient and lubricant. Improves wet combing and provides skin conditioning, foam stability and retention. Used in shampoos, conditioners, soap bar/liquid, lotions, creams.
PEG-23M		25322-68-3	PEG-23M	Rita PEO-3	Used in personal care. Offers mildness, lubricity and film forming properties.
PEG-45M		25322-68-3	PEG-45M	ALKOX® E-75G	Acts as an emollient and lubricant. Improves wet combing and provides skin conditioning, foam stability and retention. Used in shampoos, conditioners, soap bar/liquid, lotions, creams.
PEG-65M		25322-68-3	PEG-65M	ALKOX® E-100	Emollient and lubricant. Improves wet combing and provides skin conditioning, foam stability and retention. Used in shampoos, conditioners, soap bar/liquid, lotions, creams.
PEG-90M		25322-68-3	PEG-90M	Rita PEO-18	Used in personal care products. Offers mildness, lubricity and film forming properties.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG-115M		25322-68-3	PEG-115M	ALKOX® E-240	Emollient and lubricant. Improves wet combing and provides skin conditioning, foam stability and retention. Used in shampoos, conditioners, soap bar/liquid, lotions and creams.
PEG-160M		25322-68-3	PEG-160M	Rita PEO-27	Used in personal care. Offers mildness, lubricity and film forming properties.
Cetyl PEG/PPG 10/1 Dimethicone			CETYL PEG/PPG-10/1 DIMETHICONE	SeraSol® SC 83-E	Emulsifier for W/O emulsion, for multiple emulsions (W/O/W) and co-emulsifier for O/W emulsions.
Cetyl PEG/PPG-7/3 Dimethicone			CETYL PEG/PPG-7/3 DIMETHICONE	SeraSol® SC 82	Silicone emulsifier for W/O emulsions. Also works as a coemulsifier for O/W emulsions & for multiple emulsions (W/ O/W).
DIMETHICONE PEG/PPG-7/4 PHOSPHATE		132207-31-9	DIMETHICONE PEG/PPG-7/4 PHOSPHATE	Pecosil® WDS-100	Allows for improved deposition of silicone onto skin and hair.
HYDROLYZED WHEAT PROTEIN/PEG-20 ACETATE COPOLYMER		175893-70-6	HYDROLYZED WHEAT PROTEIN/PEG-20 ACETATE COPOLYMER	Neopro® W-40	It is the diester reaction product of hydrolyzed wheat protein and PEG-20 and is offered as a 40% solution in water. Optimize substantivity to hair.
Jojoba Oil PEG-150 Esters		329360-70-5	JOJOBA OIL PEG-150 ESTERS	FLORASOLVS® PEG-150 HYD JOJOBA	Bodying agent, clarifying agent, co-emulsifying agent, emollient, film former, fragrance solubilizer, hair fixative, lubricant, plasticizer and solubilizing agent.
JOJOBA WAX PEG-120 ESTERS		159518-81-7	JOJOBA WAX PEG-120 ESTERS	FLORASOLVS® PEG-120 JOJOBA; Jojoba Aqua Sol PEG-120	Bodying agent, clarifying agent, cleansing agent, co-emulsifying agent, emollient, feel modification/enhancement, film former, fragrance solubilizer and hair fixative.
Jojoba Wax PEG-80 Esters		159518-81-7	JOJOBA WAX PEG-80 ESTERS	FLORASOLVS® PEG-80 JOJOBA	Bodying agent, cleansing agent, co-emulsifying agent, emollient, feel modification/enhancement agent, fragrance solubilizer, lubricant and solubilizing agent.
Lauryl PEG/PPG-18/18 Methicone			LAURYL PEG/PPG-18/18 METHICONE	Dow Corning® 5200 Formulation Aid	Used in skin care products such as protective cream, cleansing lotion, night cream, sunscreen cream, baby cream, dry skin cream and lotion and moisturizing cream.
Methoxy PEG-17/Methoxy PEG-11/HDI Isocyanurate Trimer Crosspolymer			POLYURETHANE-34	Baycusan® C 1005	Filler. In rinse off and leave on products, it imparts a powdery velvety feeling to skin.
PEG/PPG-14/14 Dimethicone				SeraSol® SC 89	Pro-foamer, O/W co-emulsifier, styling resin plasticizer, wetting agent, wet-conditioning agent and humectant.
Polymer	Functional Group/Compound	CAS No.	INCI name	Commercial name	Description as cosmetic ingredients.
PEG/PPG-15/15 Dimethicone			PEG/PPG-15/15 DIMETHICONE	Dow Corning® 5330 Fluid	Clear and opaque conditioning shampoos, rinse-off conditioners, leave-in conditioning treatments like detanglers, hair masques, mousses.
PEG/PPG-15/5 Dimethicone			PEG/PPG-15/5 DIMETHICONE	SeraSol® SC 91	Pro-foamer, O/W co-emulsifier, styling resin plasticizer, wetting agent, wet-conditioning agent and humectant.
PEG/PPG-17/6 Copolymer				UconTM 75-H-450	Moisturizing body lotions and eye make-up removers. Acts as an emollient, solvent and deposition agent.
PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone			PEG/PPG-18/18 DIMETHICONE	PCM -7919; BRB 523	It is used in hair care formulations to add silkiness, shine, lubricity, and detangling.
PEG/PPG-20/15 Dimethicone			PEG/PPG-20/15 DIMETHICONE	SF 1188A	Used in personal care products such as hair sprays, hand lotion, antiperspirants, shaving aids and shampoos.
PEG/PPG-25/25 Dimethicone			PEG/PPG-25/25 DIMETHICONE	Si-TecTM DMC 6031	Used in personal cleansing products, sun care and skin care. Possesses foam stabilizing, wetting, plasticizing and emulsification properties.
PEG/PPG-6/2 Glyceryl Cocoate		72245-11-5	PEG/PPG-6/2 GLYCERYL COCOATE	Stepan® 745 GC	Conditioning agent, viscosity builder and emulsifier. It is a 100% active non-ionic liquid emollient. It is an alkoxylated derivative of glyceryl cocoate.
PEG/PPG-6/4 Dimethicone			PEG/PPG-6/4 DIMETHICONE	SeraSol® SC 90	Pro-foamer, O/W co-emulsifier, styling resin plasticizer, wetting agent, wet-conditioning agent and humectant.
PEG-180/Laureth-50/TMMG Copolymer		373609-46-2		PURE THIX® 1450	Thickening, emulsifying agent, film former and humectant.
PEG-33/Adipic Acid/HMDA/Glycol Copolymer (Proposed).				AXIOM ACT-33A	Effective hair conditioner. It is available in either non-ionic or mildly anionic form.
PPG-12-PEG-65 Lanolin Oil		68648-38-4	PPG-12-PEG-65 LANOLIN OIL	Ritalan AWS	Used in cosmetic formulations. Leaves a softer, smoother emollient film than other water soluble lanolins.
PPG-1-PEG-9 Lauryl Glycol Ether		154248-98-3	PPG-5-LAURETH-5	Eumulgin® L	Used in aqeous cosmetic preparations. Acts as a non-ionic O/W-emulsifier and/or solubiliser.
Wax PEG-3 Beeswax		136097-93-3			Hydrophilic derivative of natural beeswax. Used in cosmetic emulsions (o/w and w/o type), oil gel products and decorative cosmetics. Offers improved oil gelling and oil retention capability.

The data were extracted from SpecialChem (http://cosmetics.specialchem.com/).

PEG COMPOUNDS FOR COSMETIC USE

PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer is a randomly produced chemical comprised of an average of 17 ethylene glycol repeats and 6 propylene glycol repeats (7). This mixture does not have a specific CAS number, rather, it is found to be included in the generic CAS number 9003-11-6, belonging to the general group of “poloxamers”. A cosmetic ingredient review regarding alkyl PEG-PPG ethers has been conducted, however it was not specified whether PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer is a related mixture based on the given list (8). Accordingly, little is known about the toxicological properties of PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer and thus, studies reflected in this review may be related to the general properties of its related mixtures, unless specific studies can be found. As much as we would like to know the specific effects of PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer both in animal and human studies, we suggest that further evaluation should be needed if safety issues are found in its analogue mixtures. PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer belongs to a group of copolymers of ethylene and propylene glycols with a variety of mixed names from a generic formula of “PPG-n-PEG-m”, where n and m signify their average respective monomer units bound to each other randomly. Non-random or block copolymers have specifically assigned denominations with rules that include “poloxamer”, “meroxapol” and “poloxamine” (9). Since very little is known about the specific properties of PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer, the generic “poloxamer” will be described in this evaluation. Poloxamers follow a general formula, where x, y, z values depend on the mixture type (10). Poloxamers are water soluble and can form gels in a concentrated aqueous solution, which is reversible to liquid form after lowering the temperature, and vice versa. Viscosity of poloxamers depends on the increasing percentages of polyoxypropylene hydrophobe and polyoxyethylene hydrophile. As mentioned, PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer could be under the umbrella of alkyl PEG-PPG ethers. This compound is produced from the reaction of an alkyl alcohol to any equivalents of both ethylene oxide and propylene oxide forming repeats in both PEG and PPG. Although these ethers are known to be surfactant-like molecules, having both hydrophobic and hydrophilic ends in their chain structures, they differ mainly in variations of their alkyl length, and the number of PEG and PPG repeat units in their hydrophobic ends. In each ingredient, the actual order of repeat units of alkoxides from different sources may be block, alternating, or random. PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer is known to be of the random type. Specific physical properties of the alkyl PEG-PPG ethers are mostly unidentified, with only a known physical form of clear to slightly yellowish liquids (8). Furthermore, each ingredient/compound group is expected to have different properties.

Only the production of poloxamers is known, where generally it is an ordered mixture of propylene oxide, propylene glycol, and ethylene oxide prepared at high temperature and pressure along with an alkaline catalyst (e.g. sodium or potassium hydroxide), which becomes neutralized to become part of the final product (11). PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer has been identified as a solvent in cosmetic products (12) as well as an emollient and surfactant (13).

Since no toxicity studies can be found for PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer specifically, the general evaluations of its chemical analogue “poloxamers” are drawn. According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) expert panel, the presence of impurities during or after the process of mixing these compounds is of concern, including 1,4-dioxane, ethylene oxide, and propylene oxide, which are known to be carcinogenic and/or highly volatile. Thus, it was emphasized that purification of end mixtures before incorporation into cosmetic products should be carried out as a necessity in order to keep these impurities to very minimum levels of 1 ppm for 1,4-dioxane and 5 ppm for ethylene oxide and propylene oxide. In addition, toxicology studies for poloxamers suggested “a low order of toxicity” in all acute to chronic animal testing, including the negative results for genotoxicity and carcinogenicity studies. No reproductive or developmental toxicity studies have been conducted thus far. In both animal and human testing, poloxamers were not dermally irritating or sensitizing. Finally, poloxamers are concluded as safe for cosmetic use according to the current concentrations applied, and according to the manufacturers’ ability to remove their impurities (8). Accordingly, PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer may have the same properties and effects as long as impurities are kept acceptably low. However, a more specific assessment for this ingredient is highly recommended to draw indubitable conclusions for the safety of its use in cosmetics.

PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate is a nonionic compound with a molecular weight of more than 1,000, and is used as an emulsifier, dispersing agent, and solubilizing agent in cosmetics and personal care products. It is mainly used in both rinse-off cleansing products such as facial cleansers or body washes and leave-on products such as creams or lotions. The cleansing and leave-on products contain this chemical up to 20% and 5%, respectively. PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate is probably removed from the water up to 90% by partitioning to solids during water treatment processes. PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate is not expected to bioaccumulate due to its high molecular weight and is not anticipated to cross biological membranes (14).

The exposure route of PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate may be dermal, and the dermal exposure to the notified polymer is expected to be extensive due to daily application of PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate-containing cosmetic products. Thus, the exposure to PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate for the public is expected to be widespread and frequent through the daily application of cosmetics (14). In spite of the widespread use of PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate, the previous safety assessment of this chemical for humans was still not sufficient. Thus, this report provides the toxicological evaluation of PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate as a cosmetic ingredient. The toxicological data of PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate were estimated based on its chemical analogues including glyceryl triisostearate, sorbitan sesquiisostearate, and PEG-20 sorbitan fatty acid esters (Table 2) (15-17). Although these chemicals do not contain all of the functional groups present in PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate, some properties of PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate can be approximated using the component chemicals. Acute oral toxicity of the PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate is expected to have LD50 of more than 2,000 mg/kg bw. Furthermore, skin irritation and sensitization testing of PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate is expected to be negative or weak. Indeed, there was no evidence of sensitization in the repeat insult patch test. Eye irritation and mutagenicity of this compound was not be observed. The main route of exposure to PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate is expected to be dermal during application of cosmetics and personal care products. Interestingly, the high molecular weight and low water solubility of PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate could inhibit its absorption through various routes including dermal, inhalation, and oral (14). Hence, based on the overall studies, PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate would not be threatening nor toxic to consumers’ health.

Table 2.

Toxicological data of PEG compounds

Chemical compound	Studies	Animal	Result	Ref.
Glyceryl triisostearate	Acute oral toxicity	Rat	LD50 > 2 g/kg bw	(16)
	Skin irritation	Rabbit	Non-irritant
	Skin sensitization	Guinea pig	Non-sensitizing
	Eye irritation	Rabbit	Non-irritant
	Mutagenicity		Not mutagenic
Sorbitan sesquiisostearate	Acute oral toxicity	Rat	LD50 > 25 g/kg bw	(17)
	Skin irritation	Guinea pig	Weak irritant
	Repeat insult patch test	human	Non-sensitizing
	Eye irritation	Rabbit	Mild irritant
	Mutagenicity		No data available
PEG-20 sorbitan fatty acid esters	Acute oral toxicity	Rat	LD50 > 2 g/kg bw	(15)
	Skin irritation	Rabbit	Non-irritant
	Repeat insult patch test	human	Non-sensitizing
	Eye irritation	Rabbit	Mild irritant
	Mutagenicity		Not mutagenic
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil	Acute toxicity	Rat	LD50 > 15.0 g/kg	(23)
	Subchronic toxicity	Rat	No signs of abnormalities	(19)
	Sensitization test	Human	Non-sensitizing effect	(20,23,29)
	Dermal studies	Rat	No microscopic changes	(24)
	Skin irritation	Mouse, Rat	No signs of irritation	(25,31)
	Reproductive and teratogenicity	Rat	No significant maternal or fetal toxicity effects	(19)
PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil	Acute toxicity	Rat	LD50 > 5 g/kg	(26)
	Sensitization test	Human	No sign of irritation	(27)
	Ocular irritation	Rabbit	Minimal irritation	(28)
	Dermal studies	Rat	The change within the normal range	(29)
	Genotoxicity	Mouse	No signs of toxicity	(30)

PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, as the name implies, is a hydrogenated castor oil-derived PEG with an average of 40 moles ethylene oxide. It is mixed through the etherification and esterification of hydrogenated castor oil glyceride and fatty acid products, having forty equivalents of ethylene oxide (18). PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil (trade name: Cremophor RH 40) is utilized as a non-ionic solubilizer and emulsifying agent. It had been used to solubilize many cosmetic products including ethereal oils, perfume compositions, vitamins, and hydrophobic active substances in aqueous and/or alcoholic solutions. The identified concentrations of PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil in products are in the range of 0.00007% to 22%, in which the maximum known concentration of 22% is contained in leave-on products (19).

There were few toxicological assessment data available for this specific compound. A patch test was conducted on 20 human volunteers using 100% concentration of PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil on the skin of the back area and observed after 24 and 48 hrs. No further details were stated, however no sign of irritation was concluded. Nevertheless, another single patch test using only 0.25% PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil as part of a formulation showed a mild reaction in 1 out of 20 human volunteers, which could be related to other ingredients in the formulation or an isolated hypersensitivity case (Table 2) (20).

A repeated insult patch test was conducted in 120 human volunteers with a formulation containing 0.05% PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil. A volume of 0.10 mL of the formulation was applied for 24 hrs on the back area of each subject through occlusive patching on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays of the 3-week testing period. Challenge patching was carried out on previously untreated sites after a 2-week non-treatment period. Observations of the treated sites showed one incident of almost imperceptible erythema among 5 subjects during the induction phase of the study, while one of these subjects showed a mild reaction during 24 and 48 hrs of the challenge patching. Another subject who did not show a reaction during the induction test also showed an almost imperceptible erythema during the challenge test. Follow-up testing of the 2 subjects who showed a reaction during the challenge test showed lesser reactions in which clinical significance could not be concluded. Thus, the overall findings of the study established a non-sensitizing effect of PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil (Table 2) (29). A similar study using a higher concentration of PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil at 0.25% in a formulation was tested in 86 subjects. During the induction testing, 2 subjects showed a mild reaction but not during challenge testing. One subject who did not show a reaction in the induction testing showed a faint erythema only at the 24 hr grading period. Results could not conclude a sensitizing effect of the chemical at this concentration (Table 2) (23).

PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil was also investigated for its sub-chronic treatment toxicity potential in animals. The first experiment was investigated in Sprague-Dawley (S-D) rats given an oral feed containing 0 (control), 10,000, 32,000, and 64,000 ppm of PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil (20 males and 20 females in each group except 10,000, which had 25 animals of each gender). All animals survived during the experiment period and no significant feeding, body weight, or hematological changes were observed in any group. Necropsy further revealed no signs of abnormalities in the internal body components. In another study, a 6-month feeding period for PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil was conducted in 3 male and 3 female beagle dogs using 0 (control), l.0%, 2.5%, and 5.0% concentrations. Observations during the study showed no significant changes in behavior, feeding, or body weight. Hematological and other biochemical parameters were of the same levels as the control group. One low-dose-treated animal died for reasons unrelated to the treatment. Necropsy further supported no evidence of toxicity in the feeding study (Table 2) (19).

Dermal studies for PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, contained at a concentration of 0.25% in a formulation, were conducted in 10 male and 10 female S-D rats through daily applications, 5 days a week for 13 consecutive weeks. The formulation was given at 1,640 mg/kg/day, which was believed to be 100 times greater than the average daily use by human consumers. During the entire duration of the study, all rats survived and no abnormal changes in behavior, body weight, hematology, urinalysis or chemical chemistry parameters were reported. In contrast, mild skin irritation at the treated site was observed starting on day 5 until the end of the study, as well as a significant elevation in hepatic weights in male rats when compared with the controls. Nevertheless, the finding was not considered relevant for toxicology since no microscopic changes were observed (Table 2) (24).

Skin irritation studies for PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil contained at a concentration of 20% in a micro-emulsion were conducted in mice. The application site was the left ear that was given a single dose of 10 µL of the material, while the right ear served as a control. During the 6 days observation, no signs of irritation could be seen in the treated ear with a 20% concentration of PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil (Table 2) (25). Another dermal irritation test using 20.66% PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, contained in a micro-emulsion gel, was conducted in male albino rats using the Draize method. Treated groups were given 0.5 g of the formulation, for 3 consecutive days, in a 5 cm2 dorsal side shaved skin area. A negative (no treatment) and a positive (0.8% aq. formalin) control group was present. During the 3 days of observation, no signs of skin irritation could be seen for the test material, and the histopathological exam yielded negative skin irritation results (Table 2) (31).

Feeding studies for the assessment of reproductive and teratogenic effects of PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil were conducted in pregnant S-D rats. One group (30 rats) was given 50,000 ppm and another 27 rats were given 100,000-ppm PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil from gestational day 0 to gestational day 20, while another 2 groups of untreated control were raised. Pregnant animals were monitored and assessed for signs of toxicity during gestation, and were sacrificed at gestational day 20 for fetal examination. Examinations of the mother and fetuses did not reveal any signs of toxicity. Although resorption and malformations/anomalies were found in some animals in the highest dose group, similar changes were also found in the control group, showing no significant differences. Thus, the researchers conducting the study could not conclude teratogenicity for PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil. Studies were also conducted in 4 groups of pregnant NMRI mice using 5,000 ppm (25 mice) and 10,000 ppm (31 mice) PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil from day 6 to 15 of gestation; the other 2 groups were raised as controls. During the study, no significant maternal or fetal toxicity effects were found, and some malformations in fetuses in the treated groups were also comparable to the control groups (Table 2) (19).

PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil is a hydrogenated castor oil-derived polyethylene glycol with an average of 60 moles ethylene oxide. It is mixed through the etherification and esterification of hydrogenated castor oil glyceride and fatty acid products, having sixty equivalents of ethylene oxide. PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oils had 349 reported uses (with a similar function to PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil) by the time of the CIR panel meeting. Their uses are expected to increase in the following years. The identified concentrations of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil in products are in the range of 0.00004% to 18%, in which the maximum known concentration of 18% is contained in leave-in non-coloring hair products (18).

From the clinical reports of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, a 27-year-old male patient with acute myeloblastic leukemia, receiving chemotherapy containing enocitabine, developed a high-grade fever and erythroblastopenia 6 hours after intravenous administration. PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil was present in the enocitabine. A follow-up study evaluation of dosing enocitabine alone showed similar symptoms. When the patient’s bone marrow was co-cultured with enocitabine or PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, significant growth inhibition of late erythroid progenitors was observed with the patient’s IgG present. The researchers suggested that the immunological suppression effects of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil could be due to its hapten effect on the hypersensitive reaction of the patient’s IgG (18). In another study, a 21-consecutive-day occlusive patch test was conducted for PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, with a 3% concentration in a formulation, in 12 human volunteers. Interestingly, the test concluded the formulation to be non-irritating (21). Thus, PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, when given according to the regulated dose, should be non-irritating to healthy consumers, while caution should be observed for individuals with immunosuppression or autoimmune syndromes.

Acute toxicity studies were conducted for PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil in various animals including male and female Beagle dogs, male and female cynomolgus monkeys, male New Zealand white rabbits, male Hartley guinea pigs, and male S-D rats. Overall results showed systemic and irritant effects only in dogs, and not in the other animals tested, indicating species-specific effects (22).

Sub-chronic dermal toxicity studies of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil were conducted in 10 female ChR-CD rats through daily topical applications (5 times a week for 13 weeks) of 284 or 2,840 mg/kg of a formulation containing 3.0% PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil. Treated sites showed slight erythema and dryness, but this was seen in both the experimental and control groups. Necropsy did not find any lesions, however significant hepatic weight and renal-tobody ratio changes were observed. Nevertheless, these changes were within the normal range of laboratory parameters, and no further histopathological changes were noted (Table 2) (29).

A sensitization study (similar methods to PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil) in 102 human subjects with 3.0% PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil formulation showed no sign of irritation in the subjects during the induction phase. During the challenge phase, only a doubtful reaction in one subject was observed after 48 hrs of testing, which further showed negative results for sensitization during a follow-up test (Table 2) (27).

Genotoxicity studies were conducted for PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil using a reverse mutation test in the Salmonella typhimurium strains TA100, TA98, TA1535, and TA1537, and in Escherichia coli strain WP2uvrA, with and without metabolic activation. Concentrations of the material tested ranged from 313 to 5,000 µg/plate, and positive controls were used including 9-aminoacridine, sodium azide, 2-(2-furyl)-3-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-acrylamide, and 2-aminoanthracene. Results showed no significant increase in revertant colony numbers at all concentrations, test strains, and metabolic conditions using PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil, whereas genotoxic results were found in the positive controls. A chromosome aberration study was also conducted in Chinese hamster V79 cells using the same concentrations as mentioned above. Mitomycin C and dimethylnitrosamine were used as positive controls. Results showed a dose-dependent cell proliferation inhibition in the “without metabolic activation conditions” 24-48 hrs after treatment. The test material with metabolic activation showed only slight cell proliferation inhibition 6 hours after treatment, even at the highest dose. Overall, PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil did not show chromosome aberrations under the experimental conditions, and it was concluded that the material was not genotoxic. Similar studies on the mouse micronucleus of 5 male and 5 female BDF1 mice were conducted by giving single intraperitoneal injections of 2,000 mg/kg bw dosage of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil to experimental groups, and saline or mitomycin C to the control groups. Bone marrow cells collected at 24, 48, and 72 hrs post-treatment showed no relevant changes in micronucleated polychromatic or normochromatic erythrocytes. No signs of toxicity were observed, further supporting its non-genotoxic properties (Table 2) (30).

An ocular irritation test was also conducted for a 3.0% PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil formulation, which caused minimal irritation to the eyes in 2 out of 6 rabbits tested after instillation. After 48 hrs, all signs had disappeared (Table 2) (28).

CONCLUSIONS

PEGs have a wide variety of PEG-derived mixtures due to their readily linkable terminal primary hydroxyl groups in combination with many possible compounds and complexes such as ethers, fatty acids, castor oils, amines, propylene glycols, among other derivatives. PEGs and their derivatives are broadly utilized in cosmetic products as surfactants, emulsifiers, cleansing agents, humectants, and skin conditioners. However, studies are lacking concerning those specific PEG-derived mixtures that we have evaluated in this review. Little is known about PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer and PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate, while some studies are available for PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil and PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil as PEGylated oils, regarding their safety and toxicity in humans and animals. Reviews were mostly carried out on the general compound, with details in a few individual studies. Nevertheless, the present review summarizes the results of the known toxicity studies of these compounds in focus (Table 2).

PEG/PPG-17/6 copolymer has particularly little toxicological information, thus further investigation is obviously needed for it to be continually utilized in cosmetics and other products with human exposure. PEG-20 glyceryl triisostearate-related studies have shown an LD50 of > 2,000 mg/kg bw in rat acute oral studies. Furthermore, this compound was observed to be non-irritating to rabbit skin and eyes, non-sensitizing to guinea pig skin, and nonmutagenic (further details unknown). Both PEG-40 and PRG-60 hydrogenated castor oils were generally non-irritating and non-sensitizing to human skin up to 100% concentration. This was also supported by animal studies. Intravenous exposure to PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil may cause hypersensitive or further immunosuppressive effects as found in a leukemia patient undergoing chemotherapy. Nevertheless, acute intravenous administration of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil to various animal species generally did not show toxic effects up to the highest administered dose of 100 mg/kg. However, Beagle dogs showed some reactions that may show species-specific effects of PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil. Repeated-dose toxicity with PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil in both S-D rats and Beagle dogs did not show toxic effects up to 64,000-ppm and 5.0% dosage concentrations, respectively. Acute oral toxicity studies in rats of both PEG-40 and PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oils have shown LD50 values of 0.25% at 15.0 g/kg and 3.0% at 5.0 g/kg, respectively. Sub-chronic dermal exposure of both mixtures to rats (0.25% PEG-40 and 0.3% PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oils) showed slight erythema (as well as in the controls), but did not cause any toxic effects. PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil showed minimal eye irritation. PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil was not genotoxic in bacteria or mammalian cells. Thus, these related PEGylated oils were concluded as safe for use in cosmetics according to regulating bodies and reviews found in this evaluation.

Unfortunately, no reliable safety or toxicity studies could be found for other PEG derivatives being evaluated in this review. Nevertheless, PEGs and PEG derivatives were generally regulated as safe for use in cosmetics, with the conditions that impurities and by-products, such as ethylene oxides and 1,4-dioxane, which are known carcinogenic materials, should be removed before they are mixed in cosmetic formulations. Ultimately, specific assessment studies for each chemical mixture are prompted for the exact evaluation of their safety in cosmetic use.