Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient functions primarily as a humectant, drawing moisture from the environment into the skin to enhance hydration and maintain suppleness. It also serves as an emollient, smoothing the skin's texture by filling in minor surface irregularities. In formulations, PEG-13 acts as an emulsifier, ensuring the stable mixture of immiscible liquids, and as a solubilizer, assisting in the dissolution of other ingredients. Notably, it can enhance the dermal penetration of co-formulated active ingredients, thereby potentially increasing their efficacy.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Insufficient-data confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
There is no information within the provided research data to suggest that PEG-13 is commonly associated with dusting or that it has specific dusting thresholds.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
PEG-13 is primarily water-soluble and also dissolves in several polar solvents such as alcohols and acetone, but is insoluble in nonpolar solvents like hydrocarbons. Aqueous solutions are stable at ambient temperatures, with PEG bonds resistant to hydrolysis. It can be safely dissolved in warm water (80-90 °C). However, it is susceptible to oxidative degradation when exposed to air; this can be minimized by avoiding elevated temperatures and oxygen, or by including an antioxidant. Optimal stability is achieved through refrigerated (4 °C) or frozen (-20 °C) storage, and by inert gas purging (e.g., argon) of containers.
Conflicts
- phenol
- penicillin
- bacitracin
- sorbitol
- tannic acid
- salicylic acid
- some plastics
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel generally finds PEGs and their derivatives safe for cosmetic use under current practices, provided they are formulated to be non-irritating. A key concern is the potential for 1,4-dioxane, a suspected carcinogen, to form as a byproduct during the ethoxylation manufacturing process, leading to its prohibition in organic cosmetics. While often well-tolerated, there are documented instances of hypersensitivity reactions, including urticaria and anaphylaxis, particularly among allergy-prone individuals. The FDA permits polyethylene glycol (with an average molecular weight of 6,000) as a food additive and in pharmaceutical applications, but no specific FDA cosmetic status for PEG-13 was found. CIR has deemed a related ingredient, PEG-13 Sunflower Glycerides, safe with concentration or usage limitations.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
PEG-13 is a highly functional ingredient that boosts hydration and aids formulation stability and active ingredient delivery, but its manufacturing byproduct concerns and potential for hypersensitivity, particularly for allergy-prone individuals, warrant a cautious approach in precision skincare.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…