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PEG-8 MYRISTATE.

Valuable / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-8 Myristate is a versatile polyethylene glycol derivative that primarily functions as an emulsifier, ensuring the stable blending of oil and water in skincare formulas. It also acts as a humectant, attracting and retaining moisture for enhanced skin hydration, and can improve product texture and ingredient penetration.

Summary

Emulsifier Humectant Solvent Cleansing Agent Texture Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates as an emulsifying surfactant, crucial for creating stable emulsions by reducing surface tension between immiscible phases. Its humectant properties allow it to draw atmospheric moisture, binding it to the skin to boost hydration and prevent product dehydration. Furthermore, it aids in dissolving other components, facilitating their deeper skin penetration, and assists in cleansing by effectively lifting impurities.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical studies involving related PEG Stearates found them to be non-irritating and non-sensitizing at concentrations of 25% or higher.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 6 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

PEG-8 Myristate is water-soluble and helps stabilize formulations by preventing drying or crystallization. Its optimal pH range is generally considered to be 6.0 - 7.5, reflecting observations for closely related compounds like PEG-8 Stearate. It exhibits broad compatibility with various amphoteric, anionic, cationic, and nonionic surfactants.

Synergies

  • Amphoteric surfactants
  • Anionic surfactants
  • Cationic surfactants
  • Nonionic surfactants

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
85%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has deemed PEG Stearates, including the related PEG-8 Stearate, safe for cosmetic use, a conclusion reaffirmed multiple times, most recently in 2024. Safety assessments for PEG-8 ranged up to 85% concentration. While generally considered mild, some studies have noted PEG-8 as a mild sensitizer or irritant, especially at high concentrations or on broken/very sensitive skin. Its use on broken skin is not recommended. No direct SCCS opinion for PEG-8 Myristate was identified.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-8 Myristate is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, primarily stabilizing formulations as an emulsifier while offering hydrating, solvent, and cleansing benefits with a generally low risk of irritation, making it suitable for a wide range of skin types.

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