PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil

PEG / Ethoxylated
Concerns
Malassezia Feeding

What is PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil?

PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil originates from hydrogenated castor oil extracted from Ricinus communis seeds, then modified with 60 ethylene oxide units to form a water-soluble, non-ionic surfactant. It appears in shampoos, body washes, micellar waters, and toners within cleansing and emulsifying product categories. By lowering surface tension, it enables micelles to lift dirt and oils for rinsing. Its key role involves solubilizing hydrophobic substances like fragrances and essential oils into water phases, creating transparent, homogeneous formulas that resist separation. This supports foaming in cleansers and even distribution in sprays, enhancing product texture and performance without greasiness.

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).
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.
Solubilizing agent
Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.

Benefits

Facilitates clear water-based formulas by dissolving oils and scents effectively.

Promotes thorough cleansing through surface tension reduction and micelle formation.

Stabilizes emulsions and boosts fragrance integration for sensory appeal.

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 using toners or sprays needing oil solubilization.
People prone to Malassezia-related skin concerns.
Users of cleansers seeking non-comedogenic options.
Those sensitive to or avoiding PEG-ethoxylated compounds.
Those preferring lightweight, transparent skincare products.
Individuals with preferences for non-surfactant heavy formulas.

Safety Notes

  • EWG rates it moderate concern (score 3) due to potential impurities.
  • Cosmetic safety panels deem it safe in typical use concentrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil

What does PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil do in products?

It solubilizes oils and fragrances in water, cleanses by forming micelles, and stabilizes clear formulas.

Is it comedogenic?

Rated 0, meaning it is unlikely to clog pores based on assessments.

Should I worry about irritation?

Typically low irritation potential in rinse-off and diluted leave-on uses per reviews.