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PEG-4 DILAURATE.

Valuable CAS 9005-02-1 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-4 Dilaurate is a multifunctional polyethylene glycol ester derived from lauric acid, primarily serving as a surfactant and emulsifier in cosmetic formulations. It expertly blends oil and water, enhances product texture, and facilitates effective cleansing.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Cleansing Stabilising Solubilizer Humectant Emollient Dispersant

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a versatile surfactant, PEG-4 Dilaurate lowers surface tension, enabling immiscible oil and water phases to combine, thereby creating stable emulsions. Its solubilizing properties allow for the uniform dispersal of insoluble components. In cleansing products, it helps lift and rinse away oil and dirt, while also improving overall product spreadability and uniform texture. Furthermore, it exhibits emollient, humectant, dispersant, and thickening capabilities, contributing to skin hydration and product consistency.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤25%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed PEG-4 Dilaurate safe for cosmetic use up to a concentration of 25%.
  2. 02 In studies on guinea pigs, a similar PEG-diester (PEG-4 diheptanoate) showed no skin irritation at 5% or 25% concentrations, though mild irritation was observed at 50% and 100%.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Partially water-soluble
Optimal pH 4 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient performs optimally within a pH range of 4.0 to 7.0, a stability characteristic observed in a 5% aqueous solution of a closely related compound, PEG-4 Laurate. Its intrinsic emulsifying and stabilizing properties inherently contribute to the overall shelf life and integrity of cosmetic formulations.

Conflicts

  • Not permitted in certified organic cosmetic formulations due to its petrochemical origin and the potential presence of 1,4-dioxane as a manufacturing byproduct.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Max tested
25%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has determined PEG-4 Dilaurate to be safe for use in cosmetic products at concentrations not exceeding 25%. The FDA has also approved related PEG Dilaurate ingredients for indirect food contact in packaging. A critical consideration in formulation is ensuring the rigorous removal of 1,4-dioxane, a potential byproduct of the ethoxylation process, to meet safety standards. While generally well-tolerated, concentrations above 25% may induce mild irritation, particularly in individuals with sensitive or compromised skin where absorption of PEGs can be increased.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-4 Dilaurate is a valuable and versatile formulation ingredient, playing a crucial role in emulsion stability and product texture, provided it is used within the 25% concentration limit and properly purified from potential contaminants.

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