Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient acts through multiple mechanisms to benefit both skin and formulation integrity. As an emollient, it delivers exogenous lipids to the skin, thereby reinforcing the natural skin barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and fostering improved hydration. This action results in conditioned, softer, and smoother skin, particularly benefiting dry, flaky, or rough areas. Furthermore, its PEGylated structure facilitates hydrogen bonding with water molecules, ensuring long-term moisture retention. As an emulsifier, it stabilizes complex formulations by allowing the uniform dispersion of oil and water phases, preventing ingredient separation and ensuring a homogeneous product. It also serves as a solubilizer for lipophilic active ingredients and fragrances.
Research
Clinical Evidence
High confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 When formulated to be non-irritating, concentrations of PEG-60 Almond Glycerides up to 20% were found to be non-irritating in human clinical studies.
- 02 The highest reported concentration of use in leave-on body and hand products is 3.2%.
- 03 The highest reported concentration of use in rinse-off skin care preparations is 6.5%.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
PEG-60 Almond Glycerides is primarily a functional ingredient (emollient, emulsifier) and is not typically 'dusted' in sub-efficacious amounts for marketing purposes.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
As an effective emulsifier, it significantly stabilizes products, preventing the separation of oil and water phases and maintaining a consistent, homogeneous mixture of ingredients. The PEGylation also contributes to its inherent stability within a formulation, helping to preserve product quality over time.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded in 2014, and reaffirmed in 2020, that PEG-60 Almond Glycerides is safe for cosmetic use at current practices and concentrations, provided the final formulation is non-irritating. Undiluted forms have shown irritation in rabbit skin studies, but this is not typically relevant for finished products. It is generally not considered problematic unless an individual has a specific nut allergy to almonds. The US FDA has also approved its safe use in certain food applications.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
PEG-60 Almond Glycerides is a valuable, multi-functional ingredient providing significant benefits as an emollient, humectant, and emulsifier, suitable for all skin types and supporting product stability with a low risk of irritation when properly formulated.
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