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Moumoujus

PEG-2 CASTOR OIL.

Questionable CAS 61791-12-6 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-2 Castor Oil is a polyethylene glycol derivative of castor oil, primarily functioning as a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier. It facilitates the stable mixing of oil and water, while also offering humectant properties to support skin hydration.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Cleansing agent Humectant Solubilizer Consistency enhancer Binding agent Softening agent Fixative Solvent Fragrance functional ingredient

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient works by reducing interfacial tension, acting as an effective surfactant and emulsifier to stabilize formulations containing both oil and water. On the skin, it assists in cleansing by solubilizing oils and impurities. As a humectant, it attracts and retains water molecules, enhancing skin moisture and potentially supporting barrier function. Derived from castor oil, it may also contribute to maintaining healthy pores through potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial actions.

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 N/A
0 7 14

Stability

PEG-2 Castor Oil is a liquid, water-soluble, non-ionic surfactant. Its molecular characteristics suggest stable performance across a broad pH range, remaining active in both acidic and alkaline conditions.

Conflicts

  • Not recommended for use on broken or irritated skin due to the potential for systemic absorption and observed toxicity in such specific conditions.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
50%
Sensitization risk Unknown

The CIR Expert Panel concluded that PEGylated oils, including PEG-2 Castor Oil, are safe for cosmetic use at concentrations up to 50% when formulated to be non-irritating. However, it is critical that products containing PEGs are purified to control potential harmful impurities like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. It should not be used on broken or irritated skin due to observed kidney toxicity in severe burn patients treated with PEG-based antimicrobial creams, though no systemic toxicity was found in studies on intact skin. Regulatory bodies like the FDA and European Cosmetics Regulation permit the use of PEG Castor Oils in specific applications.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

While PEG-2 Castor Oil offers versatile surfactant and humectant properties, its use is questionable for precision skincare due to an 'avoid' rating from consumer resources, the necessity for stringent impurity control, and a strict contraindication for use on compromised skin.

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