PEG-25 Castor Oil

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-25 Castor Oil?

PEG-25 Castor Oil is produced by reacting castor oil, derived from the seeds of Ricinus communis, with approximately 25 units of ethylene oxide, resulting in a polyoxyethylene ether. This modification enhances its solubility in water, transforming the naturally hydrophobic castor oil into a versatile cosmetic ingredient. Primarily found in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, and makeup removers, as well as leave-on formulations such as lotions and serums, it serves as a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifying agent. In formulations, it reduces surface tension between oil and water phases, enabling effective dispersion of oils, improved foaming in cleansers, and stable emulsions in creams. Its mild nature supports its use across various product types without significantly altering texture or viscosity.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 2-4 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.

Benefits

Helps create stable oil-in-water emulsions for smooth lotion textures.

Supports gentle cleansing and foaming in shampoos and washes.

Aids in solubilizing fragrances and oils for even product distribution.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users of foaming cleansers seeking mild surfactant action.
Those with known sensitivity to ethoxylated compounds.
Individuals with lotions needing reliable emulsification.
Individuals preferring to minimize PEG ingredients in routines.
People preferring non-comedogenic ingredients in daily routines.
Users concerned about potential trace impurities in cosmetics.

Safety Notes

  • Rated with low to moderate concern by safety databases based on use levels.
  • Purified forms minimize risks from manufacturing impurities.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-25 Castor Oil

What does PEG-25 Castor Oil do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to enable cleansing and foaming, and as an emulsifier to blend oils and water stably.

Is PEG-25 Castor Oil comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore clogging.

Are there safety concerns with PEG-25 Castor Oil?

Safety assessments note low to moderate concerns, primarily related to potential impurities in unpurified forms.