Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient operates as a multi-functional surfactant, improving cleansing efficacy and enhancing foam production. As a polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivative, it binds water to the skin, acting as a humectant. It also facilitates the blending of oil and water as an emulsifier, softens and smooths the skin as an emollient, and can serve as a solvent to aid in the penetration of other active ingredients.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Studies on related PEG-8 caprylic/capric glycerides indicate non-irritancy in rabbit eyes at concentrations up to 3.0%, with slight irritation observed at 5.0%.
- 02 A blend containing 40% of related PEG-8 caprylic/capric glycerides established a No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) of 5 ml/kg/day in rats.
- 03 Microemulsion systems containing 11.5-53% of related PEG-8 caprylic/capric glycerides have been shown to significantly enhance transdermal delivery of certain active pharmaceutical ingredients, increasing lidocaine delivery by up to four times and prilocaine hydrochloride by nearly tenfold.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
No data available to suggest dusting concerns for this ingredient.
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
This ingredient exhibits excellent stability across a broad pH range of 3.0 to 12.0, maintaining its integrity and efficacy in moderately strong acidic, alkaline, and salt solutions.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has determined this ingredient, as part of the PEGylated Alkyl Glycerides class, to be safe for cosmetic use when formulated to be non-irritating. While generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for drug delivery, PEGs should not be applied to compromised skin. Manufacturers are advised to ensure purity by minimizing potential contaminants like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. Due to the ethoxylation process involved in its production, this ingredient is not permitted in certified organic cosmetic formulations. For related ingredients like PEG glyceryl cocoates, concentrations up to 10% in leave-on products were deemed safe.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
This multi-functional PEG derivative is a valuable ingredient for its cleansing, emulsifying, emollient, and humectant properties, deemed safe for use in cosmetics when properly formulated.
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