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PEG-3 LANOLATE.

Valuable CAS 68459-50-7 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-3 Lanolate is a multi-functional derivative of polyethylene glycol and lanolin, recognized for its dual role as a skin-conditioning agent and an emulsifier. It enhances skin hydration and supports barrier integrity by attracting and retaining essential moisture.

Summary

Emollient Emulsifier Humectant Skin Penetration Enhancer Skin-Conditioning Agent

Science

Mechanism of Action

PEG-3 Lanolate functions as an emollient by creating a protective, occlusive layer on the skin's surface, thereby minimizing transepidermal water loss. Its humectant capabilities, attributed to the PEG moiety, allow it to form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, drawing moisture into the stratum corneum and contributing to skin barrier restoration. Additionally, it serves as an effective surfactant-emulsifier, stabilizing immiscible phases in cosmetic formulations, and may act as a penetration enhancer for other active ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data 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

This ingredient exhibits general stability, though its ether oxygens and ester bonds are potentially susceptible to reactivity or enzymatic cleavage. Manufacturers must ensure the rigorous minimization of impurities such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane.

Conflicts

  • Damaged skin (due to potential for increased absorption of low molecular weight PEGs)

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The CIR Expert Panel has concluded that polyether lanolins, including PEG-3 Lanolate, are safe for cosmetic applications, with human assays demonstrating no irritation or sensitization at concentrations up to 60%. However, due to the potential for enhanced absorption of low molecular weight PEG components through compromised skin, application to damaged skin is not recommended. While the SCCS has not issued a specific opinion, general concerns for PEGs involve strict control of manufacturing impurities like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. No specific FDA status for PEG-3 Lanolate is noted, but PEGs are broadly permitted in cosmetics.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-3 Lanolate is a valuable multi-functional ingredient that safely contributes to skin hydration and barrier function through its emollient and humectant properties, while also effectively stabilizing cosmetic formulations as an emulsifier.

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References

Sources