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PEG-3 COCAMIDE.

Valuable CAS 61791-08-0 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-3 Cocamide is a non-ionic surfactant synthesized from coconut oil and ethylene oxide, primarily serving as an emulsifier to blend oil and water phases, while also offering conditioning and texture-enhancing properties in formulations.

Summary

Surfactant Emulsifying Foaming agent Thickening agent Conditioning agent Cleansing agent Viscosity controlling

Science

Mechanism of Action

This versatile non-ionic surfactant operates by lowering surface tension, enabling the stable dispersion of immiscible liquids (emulsification) and facilitating effective cleansing. It contributes to product viscosity and foam generation, and importantly, functions as a conditioning agent, imparting a soft, smooth feel to skin and hair. Furthermore, like other polyethylene glycol derivatives, it can draw moisture into the skin through hydrogen bonding, potentially supporting barrier function and and acting as a topical penetration enhancer.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

PEG-3 Cocamide is a water-soluble, liquid polyethylene glycol derivative known for its broad spectrum of viscosity and solubility. While an optimal pH range for stability is not explicitly detailed, PEGs generally exhibit good skin tolerance and are favored for their water-soluble, non-greasy nature.

Conflicts

  • Must not be used in cosmetic products where N-nitroso compounds can be formed.
  • Manufacturers must minimize the presence of 1,4-dioxane impurities.
  • Manufacturers must minimize the presence of primary amine impurities.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Panel has concluded that PEG-3 Cocamide and related ingredients are safe for use in cosmetic formulations when they are designed to be non-irritating. No specific maximum concentration in cosmetics was reported in industry surveys. It is critical for manufacturers to prevent the formation of N-nitroso compounds and to control impurities such as 1,4-dioxane and primary amines. The FDA has approved PEG-3 Cocamide for general or specific limited use in food. While a direct SCCS assessment for PEG-3 Cocamide was not found, related ingredients have been reviewed with restrictions.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-3 Cocamide is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, providing emulsification, conditioning, and textural benefits, deemed safe for cosmetic use when formulated correctly to minimize impurities and irritancy.

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