PEG-115m

What is PEG-115m?

PEG-115M is a synthetic polyethylene glycol polymer produced by the polymerization of ethylene oxide, featuring an average molecular weight around 115,000 daltons. This results in a water-soluble, non-volatile substance with excellent humectant and film-forming properties. In cosmetics, it falls under structuring agents commonly found in lotions, creams, foundations, and solid products like lipsticks or pressed powders. It operates by creating hydrogen bonds that link solid particles into durable matrices, reinforcing emulsion interfaces to resist creaming or cracking, and increasing solution thickness through chain entanglement for enhanced shear-thinning behavior. Its large size restricts dermal absorption, positioning it as a topical modifier rather than a penetrating active. This multifunctional role supports diverse formulations from thin serums to thick pastes, ensuring consistent performance under varying conditions.

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

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Binder
Helps hold solid ingredients together to form cohesive tablets, compacts, or sticks, improving pressability, integrity, and wear of the finished product.
Emulsion stabilizer
Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Benefits

Enhances product cohesion by binding ingredients for better durability and wear.

Strengthens emulsions to maintain separation-free consistency over time.

Optimizes viscosity for smooth dispensing and even application feel.

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 using solid or pressed cosmetics needing firm texture.
Those with known sensitivity to polyethers or glycols.
Individuals with lotions or creams seeking long-term stability.
People avoiding synthetic polymers in formulations.
Users preferring products with controlled thickness for easy spreading.
Individuals concerned about potential manufacturing impurities.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard when used within cosmetic limits by safety reviews.
  • High molecular weight minimizes skin penetration risk.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-115m

What does PEG-115M do in skincare?

It binds ingredients, stabilizes emulsions, and controls thickness for stable, smooth products.

Is PEG-115M safe for daily use?

Safety assessments deem it suitable in cosmetics at typical levels with impurity controls.

Does PEG-115M cause irritation?

Generally shows low irritation potential in formulation testing.