PEG-30 Glyceryl Cocoate

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-30 Glyceryl Cocoate?

PEG-30 Glyceryl Cocoate is a polyethoxylated ester formed by combining glycerol with fatty acids from coconut oil and adding 30 ethylene oxide units, resulting in a hydrophilic, non-ionic compound. Commonly found in rinse-off cleansers like shampoos, body washes, and facial foams, as well as leave-on items such as lotions and toners, it functions by reducing surface tension to lift away soils and oils effectively. Its emulsifying action creates stable oil-in-water blends, yielding smooth, consistent textures that resist separation. As a solubilizer, it disperses water-insoluble components like scents into clear aqueous formulas, enhancing product clarity and performance. This versatile ingredient supports mild, efficient formulations suitable for daily hygiene and skincare routines without harsh effects.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1-4 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.

Cleansing agent

Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.

Solubilizing agent

Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.

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

Gentle surface tension reduction for effective dirt and oil removal.

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures for smooth lotion and cream textures.

Disperses fragrances and oils into clear, stable water-based products.

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 daily cleansers needing mild, non-drying wash.	Those sensitive to PEG or ethoxylated ingredients.
Individuals with normal or oily skin in emulsions and toners.	Preferers of completely natural, non-synthetic formulas.
People seeking clear micellar waters and sprays.	Individuals with highly reactive skin prone to surfactant irritation.

Safety Notes

Rated low to moderate hazard by EWG, safe in typical cosmetic concentrations.
Opt for products from trusted sources to minimize potential impurities.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-30 Glyceryl Cocoate

What is PEG-30 Glyceryl Cocoate used for?

It serves as a surfactant, cleansing agent, solubilizer, and emulsifier in washes, lotions, and toners.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Generally low irritation potential, but patch test if sensitive to PEGs.

Does it contribute to breakouts?

No, with a comedogenic rating of 0, it's non-pore-clogging.