PEG-7 Hydrogenated Castor Oil

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-7 Hydrogenated Castor Oil?

PEG-7 Hydrogenated Castor Oil originates from castor oil extracted from Ricinus communis seeds, which undergoes hydrogenation to saturate its fatty acids for stability, followed by ethoxylation with seven ethylene oxide units. This creates a water-soluble, non-ionic compound commonly used in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, and micellar waters, as well as leave-on items such as lotions and fragrances. It functions by lowering surface tension to promote even mixing of oils and water, enabling stable emulsions with smooth textures. Additionally, it disperses hydrophobic scents into watery bases and imparts a softening effect on skin surfaces during application, while supporting foam formation in cleansing formulas.

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 stability by emulsifying oils and water for consistent textures.

Solubilizes fragrances, ensuring even scent distribution without separation.

Provides a softening feel on skin, improving slip and smoothness in formulas.

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 foaming cleansers seeking gentle, effective surfactants.	Those sensitive to ethoxylated compounds.
Individuals preferring fragranced products with stable scents.	Individuals preferring non-PEG formulations.
People wanting emollient textures in lotions and washes.	Users concerned about potential impurities in PEG derivatives.

Safety Notes

EWG rates it 3, indicating low to moderate concerns mainly from processing impurities.
Non-comedogenic with rating of 0, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-7 Hydrogenated Castor Oil

What is PEG-7 Hydrogenated Castor Oil made from?

Hydrogenated castor oil from plant seeds, modified with polyethylene glycol for solubility.

Is it safe for daily use in skincare?

Generally safe in cosmetics per reviews, with low comedogenic potential.

Does it help with fragrance in products?

Yes, it solubilizes scents for even dispersion in water-based formulas.