PEG-30 Castor Oil

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-30 Castor Oil?

PEG-30 Castor Oil originates from castor oil extracted from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant, chemically modified through ethoxylation by adding approximately 30 units of polyethylene glycol. This process transforms the naturally hydrophobic castor oil into a water-soluble, non-ionic compound. Primarily used in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers, as well as leave-on items such as lotions and serums, it functions by reducing surface tension between oil and water phases. This enables the formation of stable micelles for dirt and oil removal, promotes emulsification for uniform product textures, and aids in solubilizing fragrances and essential oils into aqueous formulas, enhancing overall product performance and sensory feel.

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

Facilitates thorough cleansing by lowering surface tension to lift away impurities.

Supports stable oil-in-water emulsions for smooth, consistent cream and lotion textures.

Improves solubility of oils and fragrances in water-based formulations.

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 seeking effective foaming cleansers and shampoos.
People with known sensitivity to polyethylene glycol compounds.
Users of emulsions like lotions preferring non-comedogenic options.
Individuals concerned about potential trace impurities in ethoxylated ingredients.
Those incorporating water-based products with oil-soluble actives.
Those allergic to castor oil derivatives.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed as safe for cosmetic use in typical concentrations by expert reviews.
  • Opt for products from manufacturers minimizing ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane impurities.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-30 Castor Oil

What makes PEG-30 Castor Oil useful in cosmetics?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse and an emulsifier to blend oil and water for stable formulas.

Is PEG-30 Castor Oil comedogenic?

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

How safe is PEG-30 Castor Oil for skin?

Expert panels deem it safe at common use levels, with low irritation risk.