PEG-8 Dicocoate

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-8 Dicocoate?

PEG-8 Dicocoate is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) ether of dicoconoic acid, synthesized by reacting coconut-derived fatty acids with eight units of ethylene oxide. This creates a versatile ingredient commonly found in rinse-off products like shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers, as well as leave-on items such as lotions and creams. Chemically, it acts as a non-ionic surfactant by lowering surface tension between oil and water, allowing dirt, oils, and impurities to be rinsed away effectively. As an emulsifying agent, it stabilizes mixtures by forming a protective film at the interface of immiscible phases, preventing separation and ensuring smooth, uniform textures in emulsions. Its mild nature supports gentle cleansing without stripping skin's natural moisture barrier excessively.

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

Facilitates effective cleansing by reducing surface tension to remove oils and residues.

Stabilizes emulsions for consistent product textures in lotions and creams.

Non-comedogenic, suitable for formulations targeting clearer pores.

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 gentle, foaming cleansers for daily use.
Those with sensitivity to PEG compounds or ethoxylated ingredients.
People with oily or combination skin needing non-pore-clogging surfactants.
People preferring natural, non-synthetic surfactants in their routines.
Users of emulsified products like moisturizers for stable hydration delivery.
Individuals concerned about potential trace contaminants in PEG derivatives.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG, considered safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews.
  • May contain impurities like 1,4-dioxane; choose products from reputable manufacturers.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-8 Dicocoate

What is PEG-8 Dicocoate used for in skincare?

It serves as a surfactant for cleansing and an emulsifier to blend oil and water in products like shampoos and creams.

Is PEG-8 Dicocoate comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, meaning it does not clog pores.

Are there safety concerns with PEG-8 Dicocoate?

Generally safe per reviews, but opt for purified sources to minimize potential impurities.