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PEG-5 OLEATE.

Valuable CAS 9004-96-0 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-5 Oleate is a polyethylene glycol derivative functioning primarily as an emulsifier and solubilizer in skincare. It facilitates the stable blending of oil and water, and also offers humectant and emollient benefits for the skin.

Emulsifier Solubilizer Humectant Emollient Consistency enhancer Binding agent Softening agent Fixative Vehicle

Science

This ingredient acts as a surfactant, effectively reducing interfacial tension to create and stabilize oil-in-water emulsions. It also serves as a solubilizer, enabling the uniform dispersion of active compounds, fragrances, and colorants. As a humectant, it attracts and retains moisture in the skin through hydrogen bonding with water molecules, thereby reducing transepidermal water loss. Additionally, it provides emollient properties to soften and lubricate the skin, and can enhance the delivery of other ingredients.


Research

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A


Transparency

Not commonly dusted

No data suggests PEG-5 Oleate is commonly overused or added without functional purpose in formulations beyond its established roles as an emulsifier, solubilizer, humectant, or emollient.


The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

While a precise optimal pH range is not defined for PEG-5 Oleate, similar PEG oleates demonstrate resistance to acidic conditions and moderate resistance to alkaline environments, suggesting broad pH stability. For optimal shelf-life, PEG solutions should be protected from warm temperatures, light, and oxygen; storage in frozen or refrigerated conditions with oxygen purged from containers is recommended.


Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed PEG compounds, including PEGylated alkyl glycerides, safe for cosmetic use when formulated to be non-irritating. The CIR explicitly removed prior cautions regarding use on damaged skin. However, critical concerns persist regarding potential contamination by toxic impurities like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane; thus, adherence to stringent good manufacturing practices is essential to minimize these contaminants. PEG-5 Oleate also holds a 'safe for general or specific, limited use' designation by the U.S. FDA for food applications.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

PEG-5 Oleate is a valuable multifunctional ingredient, widely utilized for its effective emulsifying, solubilizing, and skin-conditioning properties, provided it adheres to rigorous purity standards to mitigate impurity concerns.


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