Science
Mechanism of Action
PEG-40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL/IPDI COPOLYMER exerts its effects by forming a cohesive, continuous film on the skin, hair, or nails upon application, thereby serving as a robust skin protecting and conditioning agent. Beyond its barrier-forming properties, it also acts as a slip modifier, optimizing ingredient flow, and a surface modifier, altering surface characteristics for a smoother feel. The PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil portion of the copolymer contributes additional benefits, functioning as an emulsifier to stabilize oil-water blends, a solubilizer, a surfactant to aid in cleansing, and an emollient to reduce transepidermal water loss and enhance skin hydration.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Low confidenceN/A
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
The PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil component of this copolymer is stable in the presence of various electrolytes and maintains good stability in low pH environments. However, it is prone to hydrolysis and decomposition in high pH conditions. Being non-ionic, it is generally active across both acidic and alkaline formulations. Optimal stability for the PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil component has been noted within a pH range of 5.5-7.0 (at a 3% concentration in water).
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has not specifically reviewed PEG-40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL/IPDI COPOLYMER. While the CIR concluded that PEGylated oils, including PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, are safe for use up to 100% when formulated to be non-irritating, the presence of the IPDI component in this copolymer has been noted as a factor requiring distinct consideration. Due to this, the specific copolymer lacks comprehensive reviewed research, resulting in an 'unknown' safety rating from INCIDecoder and 'not rated' status from Paula's Choice. Its component, PEG-30 and -40 hydrogenated castor oil, has FDA approval as direct and indirect food additives.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
While PEG-40 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL/IPDI COPOLYMER offers valuable film-forming, conditioning, and textural benefits, the current lack of specific comprehensive safety and clinical efficacy data for the copolymer itself suggests its precise impact and suitability require further research.
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References
Sources
- cosmileeurope.eu ↗
- paulaschoice.co.uk ↗
- naturallythinking.com ↗
- ambujasolvex.com ↗
- lesielle.com ↗
- pcc.eu ↗
- specialchem.com ↗
- sincereskincare.com ↗
- newdirectionsaromatics.com ↗
- cir-safety.org ↗
- paulaschoice-eu.com ↗
- humblebeeandme.com ↗