PEG-4 Rapeseedamide

Benefits
Cleansing

What is PEG-4 Rapeseedamide?

PEG-4 Rapeseedamide is a non-ionic surfactant made from fatty acids of rapeseed oil, a plant source similar to canola. It forms through amidation of rapeseed fatty acids with ethanolamine, followed by attachment of four ethylene oxide units for enhanced solubility. Primarily featured in rinse-off cosmetics such as shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers, it operates by reducing surface tension between liquids, oils, and skin. This action promotes dirt removal during washing, enables blending of water and oil phases to prevent separation in emulsions, and modifies flow properties for optimal thickness and spread. Its vegetable origin appeals to formulators seeking milder alternatives to harsher cleansers, supporting stable, user-friendly textures in daily hygiene products.

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.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Benefits

Supports thorough cleansing by lifting away impurities and excess oils.

Facilitates emulsion stability for even product distribution.

Regulates thickness to enhance usability and suspension of particles.

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 reliable foam.
Those allergic to rapeseed or related plants.
Individuals preferring vegetable-sourced cleansing agents.
People avoiding ethoxylated ingredients.
People with non-comedogenic needs in rinse-off formulas.
Individuals with extreme skin sensitivity seeking minimal surfactants.

Safety Notes

  • EWG rates it 3, signaling moderate concern profile.
  • Non-comedogenic with rating of 0, suitable for acne-prone routines.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-4 Rapeseedamide

What does PEG-4 Rapeseedamide do in products?

It cleanses by lowering surface tension, emulsifies phases, and controls viscosity for better texture.

Is PEG-4 Rapeseedamide comedogenic?

It carries a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low pore-clogging potential.

Who uses products with this ingredient?

Common in shampoos, cleansers, and emulsions for everyday washing routines.