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PEG-5 CASTOR OIL.

Valuable CAS 61791-12-6 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-5 Castor Oil is a polyoxyethylenated derivative of castor oil, primarily utilized as an emulsifier and surfactant to stabilize oil-in-water formulations. This versatile ingredient also contributes conditioning and moisturizing benefits, improving skin texture and hydration without a greasy residue.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Conditioning Solubilizing Humectant Emollient

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by significantly lowering interfacial tension between immiscible liquid phases, thereby enabling the stable mixing of oil and water in cosmetic emulsions. It acts as a conditioning agent and solubilizer, making it suitable for various formulation types. Furthermore, its humectant and emollient properties help attract and retain moisture, maintaining the skin's natural hydration levels and protecting against dryness. It is characterized by its water-soluble and non-greasy nature.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 1–5%
Optimal

5%

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 6 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Polyoxylated derivatives of castor oil, including PEG-5 Castor Oil, demonstrate stability across a broad pH spectrum. A 5% aqueous solution typically exhibits a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. For optimal shelf-life, store the ingredient in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture.

Conflicts

  • Potential impurities such as 1,4-dioxane and unreacted ethylene oxide residues necessitate stringent purification procedures to ensure safety and formulation integrity.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel determined that PEGylated oils, including various PEG Castor Oils, are safe for cosmetic applications when formulated to be non-irritating. While related PEG Castor Oils (e.g., PEG-30 to PEG-40) have been deemed safe up to 50% concentration, a specific maximum safe concentration for PEG-5 Castor Oil was not explicitly defined in the provided data. It is crucial that the ingredient undergoes rigorous purification to eliminate potential contaminants such as 1,4-dioxane and unreacted ethylene oxide. The FDA also acknowledges castor oil and certain PEG Castor Oil ingredients for specific direct and indirect food additive uses.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-5 Castor Oil is a valuable multifunctional ingredient, essential for creating stable emulsions and delivering conditioning and hydrating properties, provided rigorous purification protocols are adhered to.

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References

Sources