PEG-5 Cocamide

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-5 Cocamide?

PEG-5 Cocamide is a synthetic nonionic surfactant created by ethoxylating cocamide, which comes from coconut oil fatty acids, with five polyethylene glycol units. This process yields a water-soluble compound with enhanced mildness and functionality. It appears in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and some lotions, primarily functioning by reducing surface tension to promote wetting, dirt removal, and stable foam formation. As an emulsifying agent, it forms a protective film at oil-water interfaces, preventing separation and ensuring product consistency. Its structure allows effective performance in rinse-off formulations without residue, supporting gentle daily cleansing routines while maintaining low irritation potential for most users.

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.

Benefits

Gentle surface tension reduction for effective cleansing and oil removal.

Boosts foam stability in shampoos and washes.

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures for even product texture.

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 seeking mild foaming cleansers for daily routines.
Individuals sensitive to ethoxylated compounds.
Those with normal to oily skin needing non-comedogenic options.
Those preferring silicone- and PEG-free formulations.
People preferring coconut-derived surfactants in hair and body products.
Users with known allergies to coconut derivatives.

Safety Notes

  • Rated moderate concern by EWG due to potential impurities in PEGs.
  • Deemed safe for use in cosmetics by Cosmetic Ingredient Review.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-5 Cocamide

What is PEG-5 Cocamide used for?

It serves as a surfactant for foaming and cleansing, and an emulsifier for stable product textures in wash-off items.

Is PEG-5 Cocamide comedogenic?

No, it has a rating of zero, suitable for acne-prone skin.

Are there safety concerns with PEG-5 Cocamide?

Low hazard overall, but watch for impurities in ethoxylated ingredients; safe per reviews.