PEG-30 Lanolin

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-30 Lanolin?

PEG-30 Lanolin originates from lanolin, a wax extracted from sheep wool, chemically modified by adding around 30 ethylene oxide molecules via ethoxylation. This process enhances its water solubility compared to raw lanolin, placing it in the category of polyether alcohols used across rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics like shampoos, shower gels, moisturizers, and toners. It operates by decreasing surface tension to promote wetting, spreading, and removal of soils in cleansing products. In emulsion-based items, it forms a protective layer at the oil-water boundary to maintain blend stability and uniform consistency. As a solubilizer, it disperses lipophilic components such as perfumes and oils into water phases, yielding transparent solutions without separation.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-3 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.
Solubilizing agent
Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.

Benefits

Supports thorough cleansing through reduced surface tension for improved lathering and rinsing.

Stabilizes oil-in-water mixtures for even, lasting textures in creams and lotions.

Incorporates fragrances and oils into clear water formulas like sprays and micellar solutions.

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 shampoos and body washes needing good foam and rinse-off.
Those with known sensitivity to lanolin or wool-derived substances.
People applying lotions and creams for smooth, non-separating application.
People experiencing reactions to ethoxylated compounds.
Individuals preferring toners or sprays with dissolved scents and oils.
Users wary of potential impurities in PEG-modified ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for cosmetic use by reviews from dermatological experts when formulated appropriately.
  • Low comedogenic potential, unlikely to block pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-30 Lanolin

What makes PEG-30 Lanolin useful in cosmetics?

It lowers surface tension for cleansing, stabilizes emulsions, and dissolves oils in water bases.

Is PEG-30 Lanolin comedogenic?

Rated 0, indicating minimal risk of pore clogging.

Are there safety concerns with PEG-30 Lanolin?

Low to moderate ratings from assessments; select quality products to minimize impurities.