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PEG-20 Lanolin.

Valuable CAS 61790-81-6 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-20 Lanolin is a polyoxyethylated derivative of lanolin, serving as a versatile ingredient in skincare. It is primarily recognized for its emollient properties, which impart softness and smoothness to the skin, and for its role as an emulsifying agent that facilitates the creation of stable formulations.

Emollient Emulsifying agent Humectant Solubilizer Consistency enhancer Binding agent Softening agent Foam stabilizer

Science

This ingredient functions distinctly as both an emollient and a surfactant. As an emollient, it creates a lubricating film on the skin's surface, thereby enhancing its texture and contributing to a supple feel. As a surfactant, it significantly lowers the surface tension between immiscible liquids like oil and water, thus stabilizing emulsions. It can also mitigate the drying effects of detergents on the skin and hair.


Research

High confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Human patch tests involving PEG Lanolins, including PEG-20 Lanolin, at concentrations ranging from 10% to 60%, reported that the ingredient was non-irritating and non-sensitizing.
  2. 02 Further animal studies examining PEG Lanolins at concentrations from 10% to 100% indicated mild to negligible skin irritation and a nonsensitizing profile.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

PEG-20 Lanolin demonstrates robust stability across all pH ranges and is soluble in both aqueous and oil phases. As a PEG derivative, it exhibits good microbiological stability, which may contribute to a reduced need for additional preservation in certain product types.


Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
60%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has deemed PEG-20 Lanolin and PEG-20 Hydrogenated Lanolin safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products. While minute quantities of 1,4-dioxane, an ethoxylation by-product, may be present, these levels are effectively managed through stringent purification processes.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Valuable

PEG-20 Lanolin is a valuable ingredient, highly effective as both an emollient and emulsifier, offering significant formulation benefits alongside a proven low irritancy and sensitization risk suitable for all skin types.


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