PEG-12
What is PEG-12?
PEG-12 is a polyethylene glycol compound, a synthetic polyether polymer formed by adding approximately 12 units of ethylene oxide to ethylene glycol. This process creates a clear, viscous liquid with high water solubility and low oil solubility. In cosmetics, it appears in moisturizers, cleansers, serums, shampoos, and conditioners. As a humectant, it binds water molecules from the environment or deeper skin layers, helping maintain surface hydration. Serving as a solvent, it disperses active ingredients evenly, adjusts product thickness, and stabilizes emulsions by bridging water and oil components. Its mild nature supports gentle cleansing without stripping skin lipids, while enhancing the penetration and efficacy of other formula elements in rinse-off and leave-on products alike.
Roles in Formulation
This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:
Benefits
Supports skin hydration by attracting and retaining moisture on the surface.
Facilitates even distribution of actives for consistent product performance.
Promotes smooth texture and spreadability in creams and lotions.
Who It's For
A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).
| Who May Benefit | Who Should Avoid |
|---|---|
| Individuals with normal to dry skin seeking added moisture retention. | Those with highly sensitive skin prone to reactions from ethoxylated compounds. |
| Users of cleansers and moisturizers wanting better ingredient blending. | Individuals avoiding synthetic polymers due to contamination concerns. |
| People preferring lightweight, water-based formulations for daily routines. | People with known allergies or irritations to polyethylene glycols. |
Safety Notes
- Considered safe in cosmetics by regulatory reviews when free of impurities like ethylene oxide.
- Rated moderate concern overall due to potential contamination risks in production.
Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-12
What does PEG-12 do in skincare?
It acts as a humectant to boost moisture and a solvent to dissolve and blend other ingredients effectively.
Is PEG-12 safe for daily use?
Regulatory bodies deem it safe in cosmetics at standard concentrations when properly purified.
Does PEG-12 cause breakouts?
It has a comedogenic rating of zero, making it unlikely to clog pores.