PEG-2 Oleamine

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-2 Oleamine?

PEG-2 Oleamine, or polyethylene glycol (2) ether of oleylamine, is a synthetic ingredient produced by ethoxylating oleylamine, derived from oleic acid found in vegetable oils. This process adds two ethylene oxide units, creating a water-soluble compound with amphiphilic properties. Primarily used in rinse-off cosmetics such as shampoos, conditioners, body washes, and facial cleansers, it functions by lowering surface tension between oil and water, enabling effective dirt removal, stable emulsion formation, and enhanced lather generation. Its mild nature supports formulation of creamy foams and uniform textures without harshness, making it suitable for everyday personal care products focused on sensory appeal and cleansing efficacy.

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:

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.
Foam booster
Enhances foam volume and creaminess and can stabilize lather, improving sensory feel and perceived cleansing in shampoos and wash-off products.

Benefits

Supports effective cleansing by reducing surface tension for better removal of oils and residues.

Helps create stable emulsions for smooth, consistent textures in lotions and cleansers.

Boosts foam quality, providing richer lather for a satisfying wash experience in shampoos.

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 seeking gentle foaming cleansers for daily hair and body care.
Those sensitive to PEG compounds or ethoxylated ingredients.
Individuals preferring products with creamy lather and even distribution.
People concerned about potential trace impurities in synthetics.
Users of rinse-off formulations needing reliable emulsification.
Individuals with compromised skin barriers preferring minimal surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • Rated moderate concern by EWG due to ethoxylation process.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores; generally safe in rinse-off uses per reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-2 Oleamine

What is PEG-2 Oleamine used for?

It acts as a surfactant, emulsifier, and foam booster in shampoos, body washes, and cleansers.

Is PEG-2 Oleamine comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it unlikely to clog pores.

Are there concerns with PEG-2 Oleamine?

EWG scores it 3 for moderate concern, mainly from ethoxylation impurities.