PEG-5 Ethylhexanoate

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-5 Ethylhexanoate?

PEG-5 Ethylhexanoate is a synthetic ingredient derived from polyethylene glycol, a polymer of ethylene oxide with five ethoxy units, esterified with 2-ethylhexanoic acid, a branched-chain fatty acid. Produced through controlled chemical reactions in industrial settings, it belongs to the PEG ester family commonly found in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics like shampoos, body washes, lotions, and creams. In formulations, it functions by reducing surface tension, which facilitates the dispersion of oils in water for effective cleansing and stabilizes emulsions by creating a protective film at the oil-water interface. This dual role supports the creation of products with smooth textures, even distribution, and resistance to separation, enhancing overall usability without contributing to pore clogging.

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

Supports effective cleansing by lowering surface tension for better removal of dirt and oils.

Stabilizes emulsions in lotions and creams for consistent texture and application.

Provides a lightweight feel in rinse-off products like shampoos and washes.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People seeking stable, non-separating cream and lotion formulas.
Those with sensitivity to PEG compounds or ethoxylated ingredients.
Individuals using daily cleansers that require gentle yet thorough cleaning.
People concerned about potential impurities in low-molecular-weight PEGs.
Users preferring lightweight emulsifiers in body care products.
Individuals preferring silicone-free or fully natural formulations.

Safety Notes

  • Rated moderate concern by EWG due to possible contamination risks from manufacturing.
  • Generally recognized as safe in cosmetics when used within typical concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-5 Ethylhexanoate

What does PEG-5 Ethylhexanoate do in products?

It acts as a surfactant for cleansing and an emulsifier to mix oil and water phases stably.

Is PEG-5 Ethylhexanoate comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, suitable for non-pore-clogging formulations.

What is the EWG rating for this ingredient?

EWG rates it 3, indicating moderate overall concern.