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PEG-10 LANOLIN.

Valuable CAS 61790-81-6 / SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-10 Lanolin is a polyoxyethylene derivative of lanolin, functioning primarily as an emulsifying agent and skin conditioner. It helps blend immiscible liquids, creating stable formulations while imparting a soft and smooth feel to the skin through its emollient properties.

emulsifying skin conditioning emollient solubilizer for active ingredients solubilizer for perfume oils solubilizer for colorants humectant consistency enhancer binding agent softening agent fixative

Science

This ingredient operates as a nonionic surfactant, reducing the surface tension between oil and water phases to facilitate the formation and stability of emulsions. On the skin, it delivers a lubricating effect, acting as an emollient to form a thin occlusive layer. This layer minimizes transepidermal water loss, thus supporting moisture retention and contributing to skin smoothness. Furthermore, it can serve as a carrier, potentially enhancing the penetration of other active ingredients.


Research

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical investigations involving PEG Lanolins (a category encompassing PEG-10 Lanolin) demonstrated mild to negligible skin irritation and nonsensitizing properties at concentrations ranging from 10% to 100% in animal studies, and 10% to 60% in human subjects. These studies primarily focused on safety rather than specific efficacy concentrations for its conditioning or emulsifying benefits.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

PEG-10 Lanolin functions primarily as an emollient and emulsifier, contributing to formulation stability and skin conditioning. Efficacy thresholds, as typically defined for active ingredients prone to 'dusting,' are not applicable for this functional excipient.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 2 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient maintains stability across a broad pH range of 2 to 10. Prolonged exposure to temperatures exceeding 80 °C should be avoided to preserve its integrity. As a nonionic surfactant, it is compatible with most other solubilizers, including electrolyte solutions up to 10%, and demonstrates synergistic compatibility with other surfactants. It can be readily dissolved in the aqueous phase of formulations.

Synergies

  • Other solubilizers
  • Other surfactants

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
15%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has deemed PEG-10 Lanolin, along with other PEG Lanolins, safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products. The broader category of polyether lanolins is utilized in cosmetics at concentrations from 0.001% to 15%. Trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a by-product of the ethoxylation process, may be present but can be controlled through purification processes; the FDA actively monitors its presence in cosmetics. While no specific SCCS opinion was found for PEG-10 Lanolin, PEG Lanolin ingredients may be used in Europe in compliance with EU animal by-products legislation. It is important to note that general lanolin has been associated with comedogenic activity, though specific data for PEG-10 Lanolin's comedogenicity remains unknown.


Your Skin

No Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Valuable

PEG-10 Lanolin is a versatile and safe ingredient, highly valuable for its emulsifying, skin conditioning, and emollient properties, suitable for a wide range of formulations.


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