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Moumoujus

PEG-4 TALLATE.

Valuable CAS 61791-00-2 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-4 Tallate is a versatile ethoxylated fatty acid ester functioning primarily as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and wetting agent in skincare. It facilitates the stable integration of oil and water components, contributing to product efficacy and aesthetic. Additionally, it offers humectant benefits, drawing moisture to the skin to support hydration.

Summary

Emulsifier Solubilizer Wetting agent Humectant Consistency enhancer Binding agent Softening agent Fixative

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient acts as an emulsifier by significantly reducing the interfacial tension between otherwise immiscible oil and water phases, thereby creating stable and uniform emulsions. This action improves product stability, enhances spreadability, and can boost cleansing performance. Furthermore, as a polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivative, it functions as a humectant, attracting and binding moisture from the environment to the skin through hydrogen bonds, which aids in maintaining hydration and forming a protective barrier against water loss.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

PEG-4 Tallate demonstrates optimal stability within a pH range of 4.0 to 7.5. While PEG-4 itself is soluble in water and many organic solvents, and PEG-4 Tallate is estimated to have very low water solubility (0.01866 mg/L @ 25 °C), its functional role as an emulsifier and solubilizer ensures effective interaction with both aqueous and oil phases in formulations.

Conflicts

  • Avoid use on severely damaged skin, such as burns, due to documented risks of systemic toxicity and contact dermatitis.
  • General PEG compounds may lead to immunogenicity and potential for accumulation in the body.
  • Potential for cross-sensitization exists due to structural similarities with other PEG derivatives.

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel deemed PEG diesters, including tallates, safe for cosmetic use when formulated to be non-irritating. PEG-4, specifically, is considered safe as a humectant and solvent up to 20% in certain preparations. The FDA generally recognizes PEGs as safe (GRAS). The SCCS considers trace levels of 1,4-dioxane (a potential by-product) safe for consumers at ≤10 ppm. Crucially, formulators must avoid using PEG compounds on severely compromised skin, such as burns, due to reported instances of systemic toxicity and contact dermatitis.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-4 Tallate is a valuable multifunctional ingredient for enhancing emulsion stability and delivering hydration, but its use requires careful consideration, particularly on compromised skin.

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