PEG-40 Lanolin

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-40 Lanolin?

PEG-40 Lanolin arises from ethoxylating lanolin alcohols—derived from sheep wool grease—with approximately 40 units of ethylene oxide, yielding a pale yellow, viscous liquid that disperses readily in water. This nonionic compound belongs to the polyoxyethylene ether family and appears commonly in rinse-off products like shampoos, conditioners, and body washes, as well as leave-on items such as lotions and makeup removers. In formulations, it operates by lowering interfacial tension between oil and water phases, facilitating the creation of stable emulsions with smooth consistency. It also aids in dispersing hydrophobic ingredients like fragrances and oils into aqueous systems, promoting clear solutions and effective micelle formation for gentle impurity removal without stripping natural moisture.

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.

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.

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 effective cleansing by forming micelles that lift dirt and oils.

Enables stable oil-in-water emulsions for creamy textures in lotions and cleansers.

Enhances solubility of fragrances and oils in water-based formulas like toners.

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 seeking mild foaming action.	Those with known lanolin or wool-derived allergies.
Individuals preferring smooth, non-separating cream formulations.	People sensitive to ethoxylated ingredients.
People incorporating scented water-based products without cloudiness.	Individuals opting for completely natural or PEG-free routines.

Safety Notes

Cosmetic Ingredient Review deems it safe for use in cosmetics at typical levels.
Opt for products from manufacturers minimizing ethoxylation impurities.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-40 Lanolin

What does PEG-40 Lanolin do in cosmetics?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse, emulsifies oils into water for stable products, and solubilizes fragrances for clear formulas.

Is PEG-40 Lanolin comedogenic?

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

Can sensitive skin use products with PEG-40 Lanolin?

Most find it mild, but those with lanolin sensitivity should patch test first.