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Moumoujus

PEG-6 UNDECYLENATE.

Valuable / ANTI-SEBORRHEIC, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

PEG-6 Undecylenate is a polyethylene glycol ester of undecylenic acid, functioning primarily as an anti-seborrheic agent and surfactant. It offers cleansing properties and notable anti-fungal efficacy, particularly within specific pH ranges, while also acting as an emulsifier and humectant.

Summary

Anti-seborrheic Surfactant Fungicide Anti-dandruff Emulsifier Humectant Solvent

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates via multiple mechanisms: it acts as an anti-seborrheic agent to help regulate oil production and as a surfactant, facilitating the removal of impurities from skin and hair. As an undecylenate derivative, it exhibits active fungicidal and anti-dandruff properties, optimally effective between pH 4 and 6. Furthermore, its PEG structure allows it to function as an emulsifier, stabilizing oil-in-water formulations, a humectant by drawing and retaining moisture, and a solvent for various active compounds.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4 – 6
0 7 14

Stability

Its anti-fungal and anti-dandruff efficacy is optimized within a pH range of 4.0 to 6.0. While PEG-6 itself has a neutral pH (4.6-7.4 for a 10% aqueous solution), the ester's functional stability is pH-dependent.

Conflicts

  • Polyethylene glycols possess the potential to form complexes with certain active substances, which may lead to their inactivation. Comprehensive testing is advised when co-formulating with other actives.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Sensitization risk Moderate

While PEG-6 Undecylenate has not been specifically reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), PEG-6 (its base) is generally considered safe and non-comedogenic. However, there is a documented potential for skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those with sensitive skin. Concerns regarding 1,4-dioxane impurities in PEG compounds are acknowledged, though manufacturers typically employ purification processes to minimize these risks. The U.S. FDA designates PEG-6 Undecylenate as safe for specific, limited food uses.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-6 Undecylenate is a versatile ingredient, valuable for its multi-functional role as an anti-seborrheic, anti-fungal, and formulation aid, particularly in products targeting oily or dandruff-prone conditions, despite lacking specific CIR review and clinical efficacy data.

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