PEG-75

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-75?

PEG-75, or polyethylene glycol with an average of 75 ethylene oxide units, is a synthetic polymer produced through the ethoxylation of ethylene oxide. This clear, viscous liquid or semisolid is widely incorporated into cosmetic formulations such as moisturizers, cleansers, serums, and hair care items. As a humectant, it draws moisture from the environment into the skin's outer layer, supporting hydration. In its solvent role, it dissolves both water- and oil-soluble ingredients, aiding uniform distribution and enhancing active delivery. Serving as a binder, it promotes cohesion in solid or semi-solid products like sticks and compacts, improving texture, integrity, and application ease. Its high molecular weight contributes to mildness, making it suitable for various rinse-off and leave-on applications across personal care categories.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-3 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Binder
Helps hold solid ingredients together to form cohesive tablets, compacts, or sticks, improving pressability, integrity, and wear of the finished product.
Humectant
Attracts and holds water in the stratum corneum, boosting hydration and plumpness; commonly used in moisturizers, cleansers, and hair conditioners.
Solvent
Dissolves and carries other ingredients, helping control viscosity, evaporation rate, and delivery of actives in both water- and oil-based systems.

Benefits

Enhances skin hydration by attracting and retaining moisture in the upper skin layers.

Facilitates dissolution of active ingredients for better product performance and even application.

Strengthens product structure, improving texture and longevity in formulations.

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 with normal to dry skin seeking added moisture in daily routines.
Those with known sensitivity to polyethylene glycols or ethoxylated compounds.
Users of lightweight lotions or serums needing better ingredient solubility.
Individuals concerned about potential impurities in ethoxylated ingredients.
People preferring stable, easy-to-apply cosmetic formats like creams or sticks.
People preferring completely natural or minimalist skincare formulations.

Safety Notes

  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review deems PEGs safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations.
  • Regulators monitor for contaminants like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, with purified forms posing low risk.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-75

What does PEG-75 do in skincare?

It acts as a humectant to boost moisture, solvent to mix ingredients, and binder for product cohesion.

Is PEG-75 safe for daily use?

Safety reviews from authorities like CIR support its use in cosmetics within standard levels.

Does PEG-75 cause breakouts?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of clogging pores.