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PEG-5 LANOLIN.

Valuable CAS 61790-81-6 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-5 Lanolin is a polyoxyethylene derivative of lanolin that functions as a highly effective emulsifier to stabilize skincare formulations. It also acts as a potent skin conditioning agent, promoting enhanced softness and smoothness while establishing a protective barrier to minimize trans-epidermal water loss.

emulsifying skin conditioning surfactant

Science

This ingredient operates by reducing surface tension between immiscible oil and water phases, thereby facilitating the creation of stable emulsions essential for product integrity. On the skin's surface, PEG-5 Lanolin acts as an emollient and lubricant, imparting a smooth texture and soft appearance. It further contributes to skin health by forming a protective, occlusive layer that significantly aids in preventing water loss, thus supporting skin hydration and barrier function.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 10–60%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical studies involving human patients reported that PEG-5 Lanolin, when used at concentrations between 10% and 60%, demonstrated non-irritating and non-sensitizing properties.
  2. 02 Animal studies provided further evidence of its low to negligible skin irritation and non-sensitizing characteristics across a broader concentration range of 10% to 100%.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 2 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

PEG-5 Lanolin ingredients exhibit robust stability across a wide pH spectrum, specifically from 2 to 10. They show excellent compatibility with most solubilizers, including electrolyte solutions up to 10%, and are only marginally affected by oxidative or reducing agents, ensuring formulation integrity.

Synergies

  • Compatible with most solubilizers
  • Stable in up to 10% electrolyte solutions

Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
60%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that PEG-5 Lanolin, along with other PEG Lanolin ingredients, is safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products at concentrations up to 60%. Minimal to no eye irritation was observed at higher concentrations (50-100%). While 1,4-dioxane, a potential byproduct of the ethoxylation process, may be present in trace amounts, its levels are controllable through purification. The FDA actively participates in the CIR. Although a specific SCCS opinion for PEG-5 Lanolin was not located, PEG Lanolin ingredients are generally permitted for use in Europe under the Cosmetics Regulation of the European Union, provided they conform to animal by-products legislation.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

PEG-5 Lanolin is a valuable ingredient for its dual functionality in stabilizing emulsions and enhancing skin hydration across diverse cosmetic formulations, supported by its documented safety profile and low irritation potential.


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