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Moumoujus

PEG-4 MONTANATE.

Valuable CAS 68476-04-0 / BINDING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

PEG-4 Montanate is a versatile polyethylene glycol derivative, primarily functioning as a binding agent, emulsifier, and viscosity controller in cosmetic formulations. It also offers humectant, emollient, and penetration-enhancing properties, contributing to product efficacy and texture.

Summary

Binding agent Emulsifier Viscosity controlling agent Humectant Emollient Solvent Penetration enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a polyethylene glycol ester of montanic acid, PEG-4 Montanate primarily serves as a multi-functional excipient. It acts as a binding agent, helping to hold ingredients together in compressed formulations, and as an emulsifier, stabilizing immiscible oil and water phases to prevent separation. Furthermore, it modulates the viscosity of solutions, ensuring desirable product consistency. Being a PEG derivative, it can also attract and retain moisture as a humectant, soften the skin as an emollient, and enhance the delivery of other active ingredients by improving skin penetration.

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

A 10% solution of PEG-4 typically exhibits a pH range of 4.6 to 7.4. General polyethylene glycols are susceptible to degradation when exposed to warm temperatures, light, and oxygen. Optimal stability is maintained by storing products containing PEGs at frozen (-20°C) or refrigerated (4°C) temperatures, ideally in dark glass containers with oxygen purged.

Conflicts

  • PVC IV tubing (observed for general PEGs, leading to material degradation)
  • Many plastic containers (for general PEG solutions, potentially impacting product integrity)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
20%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that PEG-4, a related compound, is safe for use in cosmetics at current concentrations, up to 20% in 'other manicuring preparations'. It demonstrates low toxicity and is considered unlikely to induce skin irritation or sensitization. However, the CIR Panel advises against its application on compromised or damaged skin. While specific data for PEG-4 Montanate is limited, related PEG esters like PEG Stearates have also been deemed safe by CIR. Rigorous manufacturing processes by reputable suppliers have largely mitigated concerns regarding potential impurities such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. The FDA generally recognizes PEGs as safe for specific, limited food applications.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-4 Montanate is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, playing crucial roles in formulation stability and texture, while also offering ancillary skin benefits with a favorable safety profile across all skin types.

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