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Moumoujus

PEG-5M.

Valuable CAS 25322-68-3 / BINDING, EMULSION STABILISING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

PEG-5M is a high molecular weight polyethylene glycol, appearing as a solid, wax-like substance. It primarily serves as a multi-functional excipient in formulations, providing binding, emulsion stabilization, and viscosity control, while also imparting humectant and emollient properties to the skin.

Summary

Binding Agent Emulsion Stabilizer Viscosity Controller Humectant Emollient Solvent Consistency Enhancer Penetration Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a polyethylene glycol, PEG-5M operates through several distinct mechanisms within cosmetic formulations. It functions as a robust binding agent, essential for maintaining the cohesion of powdered products. Its role as an emulsion stabilizer aids in the formation and longevity of stable emulsions. PEG-5M precisely controls viscosity, enabling targeted adjustments to product consistency. On the skin, its hydrophilic nature attracts and retains moisture as a humectant, simultaneously softening the epidermal surface as an emollient. Furthermore, higher molecular weight PEGs, such as PEG-5M, enhance overall product consistency, and select PEG types are recognized for their ability to improve the penetration of other topical ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range ≤25%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical evaluations of polyethylene glycols, including PEG-5M, indicate minimal skin irritation and no significant sensitization in human subjects at concentrations reaching up to 25%.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Conflicts

  • Not recommended for application on severely damaged skin, such as second or third-degree burns, due to significantly increased penetration and potential for systemic toxicity.
  • May compromise the skin's natural lipid barrier in certain individuals, potentially leading to increased dehydration and sensitivity.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has deemed polyethylene glycol ingredients, including PEG-5M, safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products when applied to intact skin. Rigorous purification steps are necessary to control potential trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a known by-product of the ethoxylation process. Due to its petrochemical origin, PEG-5M is prohibited in certified organic cosmetic formulations.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-5M is a valuable multi-functional excipient for intact skin, contributing significantly to product stability, texture, and moisture retention with a low risk of irritation.

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