PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil?

PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a synthetic derivative created by hydrogenating castor oil from Ricinus communis seeds to saturate its fatty acids, then adding five ethylene oxide units for water compatibility. This process yields a nonionic surfactant commonly found in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, and micellar waters, as well as leave-on items such as fragranced lotions. It works by lowering surface tension between oil and water phases, enabling the dispersion of hydrophobic fragrances and oils into aqueous formulas. As an emulsifier, it forms protective films around droplets to prevent separation, ensuring product stability and even texture. In cleansing products, it contributes to foam generation and mild dirt removal without harshness.

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:

Fragrance ingredient

Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).

Emollient

Softens and smooths skin by filling in surface roughness and improving slip; can also help reduce moisture loss when paired with occlusives and film formers.

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

Enhances product texture by blending oils and water for smooth application.

Supports fragrance solubility, delivering consistent scent in water-based formulas.

Provides mild emollience, helping skin feel softer after use.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit	Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking stable, scented cleansers and shampoos.	Those with sensitivity to ethoxylated compounds.
Users of emulsions like lotions needing reliable blending.	People concerned about potential impurities in PEG derivatives.
People preferring non-comedogenic surfactants in daily routines.	Individuals preferring fully natural, non-synthetic ingredients.

Safety Notes

Assessed safe for cosmetic use by expert panels when meeting purity standards on contaminants.
Rated moderate concern overall due to possible trace impurities like ethylene oxide.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil

What is PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil made from?

Derived from hydrogenated castor oil ethoxylated with five PEG units for solubility.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Generally low irritation potential per safety assessments, but patch test advised.

What products commonly contain it?

Shampoos, body washes, fragranced lotions, and micellar cleansers.