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Moumoujus

PEG-13 ETHYLHEXANOATE.

Valuable / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-13 Ethylhexanoate is a versatile synthetic ester functioning primarily as an emulsifying agent and surfactant, crucial for blending oil and water phases into stable formulations. It also acts as a solubilizer for active ingredients and enhances skin conditioning through humectant and emollient properties.

Summary

Emulsifying Agent Surfactant Solvent Solubilizer Humectant Skin Conditioning Agent Emollient Penetration Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates through its amphiphilic molecular structure, enabling it to reduce interfacial tension between immiscible phases, thereby stabilizing oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsions. It efficiently solubilizes lipophilic substances like fragrances and colorants, integrating them uniformly into water-based systems. On the skin, it contributes to hydration by attracting and retaining moisture, and provides a smooth, lubricated feel as an emollient. Additionally, it can act as a vehicle, potentially facilitating the deeper penetration of other cosmetic ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

As an ester, PEG-13 Ethylhexanoate contains hydrolyzable bonds, but significant degradation is not expected within the optimal pH range of 4.0 to 9.0. It demonstrates general stability under standard conditions of use.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that 'PEGylated alkyl glycerides', including PEG-13 Ethylhexanoate, are safe for use in current cosmetic practices, provided the final product is formulated to be non-irritating. This supersedes prior limitations, such as a 10% maximum for leave-on products. A predicted metabolite, 2-ethylhexanoic acid (2-EHA), has been identified as a reproductive and developmental toxicant in high-dose animal studies. Furthermore, PEGs may contain trace impurities like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, both linked to cancer, and can enhance the penetration of other ingredients. Therefore, caution is advised when pairing with ingredients whose safety is dependent on limited dermal absorption. No specific FDA status or SCCS opinion was found for this ingredient.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-13 Ethylhexanoate is a valuable ingredient for emulsion stability and solubilization across various formulations, but requires diligent formulation to ensure non-irritancy and careful consideration of potential impurities and enhanced penetration.

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