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Moumoujus

PEG-3 DIPALMITATE.

Questionable CAS 32628-06-1 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-3 Dipalmitate is a polyethylene glycol derivative primarily utilized in formulations as an emulsifier, stabilizing the mixture of oil and water phases. It also functions as an emollient, contributing to skin softening, and may enhance the transdermal delivery of other active ingredients. While generally deemed safe with restrictions by the CIR Expert Panel, it exhibits a medium irritancy potential and has been linked to serious eye irritation in a notable percentage of reports.

Summary

Emulsifying Emollient Delivery Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates primarily by stabilizing oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsions, ensuring the homogeneity and integrity of complex cosmetic formulations. As a PEG derivative, it contributes to a smooth, lubricated skin feel through its emollient action. Additionally, its molecular structure suggests a potential role in improving the permeation of other cosmetic components into the skin, effectively acting as a delivery vehicle.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

No specific optimal pH range for PEG-3 Dipalmitate's stability was identified. However, polyethylene glycols generally may influence formulation pH, with some solutions exhibiting lower pH values.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that PEG-3 Dipalmitate is safe for use in cosmetics, provided specific qualifications are met. While most reports (78.4%) indicate it does not meet GHS hazard criteria, a significant portion (21.6%) identifies it as causing serious eye irritation (H319). The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has assessed concerns for cancer, allergies, immunotoxicity, and developmental/reproductive toxicity as low for this ingredient. However, its safety profile warrants increased scrutiny in inhalable product formats due to potential respiratory concerns, and in any formulation where manufacturing processes may not rigorously prevent contamination by toxic impurities like 1,4-dioxane, a known byproduct of ethoxylation.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

PEG-3 Dipalmitate acts as an effective emulsifier and emollient, yet its potential for eye irritation and risk of impurities necessitate careful consideration within precision skincare formulations.

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