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PEG-40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL.

Valuable CAS 61788-85-0 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a multi-functional ingredient primarily utilized as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and surfactant in skincare. It facilitates the harmonious blending of oil and water phases, contributing to stable and effective formulations while also imparting emollient benefits to the skin.

Summary

emulsifying solubilizing surfactant emollient occlusive

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates by reducing surface tension between immiscible oil and water components, enabling their uniform dispersion within a formulation. As a surfactant, it aids in lifting dirt and oils from the skin, allowing for easy rinsing. It forms micelles, which encapsulate and distribute hydrophobic ingredients like fragrances or active oils evenly. On the skin, it acts as an emollient to soften and smooth, and as an occlusive agent, it creates a subtle barrier to minimize trans-epidermal water loss, thereby enhancing skin hydration. While some benefits like anti-inflammatory effects and epidermal barrier reinforcement are suggested, direct scientific evidence for these claims remains limited.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

There is no research data indicating that PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is commonly 'dusted' or overused in formulations, or any associated thresholds for concern.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 4.5 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

Optimal stability is observed within a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5. It exhibits good stability in acidic conditions but can undergo hydrolysis and decompose in highly alkaline environments. The ingredient maintains stability when co-formulated with other electrolytes. To preserve its integrity, temperatures should not exceed 60°C during processing.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
100%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed PEG-30 and -40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil safe for use in cosmetic products at concentrations up to 100%, extrapolating data from related PEG Castor Oils. Concerns regarding 1,4-dioxane, a potential byproduct of ethoxylation, are addressed as it is purified out of the final ingredient. While generally considered non-irritating and suitable for sensitive skin by many sources, including animal irritation studies at concentrations up to 20.66%, one Safety Data Sheet (SDS) classifies the raw material as a Category 2 skin and eye irritant. The FDA approves it as a direct and indirect food additive and specifies a maximum use concentration of 22% in non-coloring leave-on hair products within cosmetic applications.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a valuable formulation aid, primarily functioning as a safe and effective emulsifier and solubilizer across various skincare and cosmetic applications, suitable for all skin types due to its low irritancy and comedogenicity.

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