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PEG-4 OLIVATE.

Valuable CAS 226708-41-4 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-4 Olivate is a versatile, olive oil-derived ingredient primarily functioning as an effective co-emulsifier to stabilize oil-in-water formulations. It significantly enhances the sensory experience of skincare products, imparting a smooth, soft feel, and provides notable moisturizing benefits to the skin.

Emulsifying Moisturizing Humectant Emollient Sensorial Modifier Formulation Stabilizer Penetration Enhancer

Science

On a molecular level, PEG-4 Olivate acts to bridge immiscible oil and water phases, forming stable oil-in-water emulsions crucial for consistent product formulations. It functions as a humectant and emollient, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin, thereby enhancing softness, elasticity, and overall hydration. Furthermore, it modulates the skin's surface, contributing to a refined and pleasant after-feel, and can potentially improve the dermal penetration of other active compounds in a formula.


Research

Medium confidence
Effective range 1–5%
Optimal

Effective concentrations range from 1-5% for co-emulsification, 1-3% as a functional lipid, and 1-2% for sensorial modification.

Key findings

  1. 01 Supplier recommendations indicate efficacy across various functional roles for improving emulsion stability, acting as a functional lipid, and enhancing skin feel.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient significantly enhances the stability and structural integrity of oil-in-water emulsions, improving texture and contributing to formulation viscosity. Its physical state can range from liquid to wax-like depending on its degree of polymerization, influencing the final texture of the cosmetic product.

Synergies

  • Enhances emulsion stability when combined with primary emulsifiers.
  • May improve active ingredient delivery due to its penetration-enhancing properties.

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has affirmed PEG-4 Olivate as safe for use in cosmetic applications, specifically noting its inclusion in a 2014 re-review of PEG compounds. Studies consistently demonstrate a low incidence of adverse effects and rare allergic reactions, underscoring its favorable safety profile. While PEG compounds may carry a theoretical risk of trace contamination with 1,4-Dioxane and Ethylene Oxide (byproducts of the ethoxylation process), stringent industry purification protocols are employed to reduce these impurities to virtually undetectable levels.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

PEG-4 Olivate is a valuable multi-functional ingredient that efficiently stabilizes formulations, enhances skin hydration, and significantly improves the sensory experience of cosmetic products with a low risk profile.


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