Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Oil PEG-6 Esters

What is Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Oil PEG-6 Esters?

Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Oil PEG-6 Esters derives from oils extracted from the fruit and kernel of the oil palm (Elaeis guineensis). Hydrogenation saturates the fatty acids in these triglyceride-rich oils, enhancing oxidative stability. Esterification with polyethylene glycol-6—a short hydrophilic polymer chain of six ethylene oxide units—yields amphiphilic compounds blending oil-soluble fatty chains with water-soluble PEG segments. Common in moisturizers, cleansers, lotions, and shampoos, it functions across anhydrous and emulsified systems. The lipophilic portion mimics skin lipids for emolliency, imparting slip and softness. Surfactant action reduces interfacial tension, aiding dispersion of oils in water for cleansing and foaming. Emulsifying capability creates stable droplets by orienting at oil-water boundaries. It also conditions skin barriers and bolsters product integrity against separation or degradation during storage.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 3 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Emollient
Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
Stabilising
Improves physical and/or chemical stability (e.g., preventing separation, precipitation, or degradation) to keep performance consistent over shelf life.

Benefits

Delivers softening and smoothing sensation by mimicking natural skin lipids.

Facilitates even blending of oils and water for consistent cream and lotion textures.

Promotes gentle cleansing through surface tension reduction without harshness.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People with dry or uneven skin textures needing lubricity.
Those with known sensitivity to polyethylene glycol derivatives.
Users of multi-phase products like lotions and micellar waters.
People avoiding palm-derived ingredients for ethical or preference reasons.
Individuals seeking stable, long-lasting skincare formulations.
Individuals prone to contact reactions from fatty acid esters.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed as low to moderate concern overall, suitable for typical cosmetic concentrations.
  • Non-comedogenic profile supports use in formulations for all skin types.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hydrogenated Palm/Palm Kernel Oil PEG-6 Esters

What does this ingredient do in products?

It softens skin, stabilizes emulsions, and enables cleansing by lowering surface tension.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Typically mild with low irritation potential based on cosmetic safety data.

Can it cause breakouts?

No, rated non-comedogenic and unlikely to block pores.