PEG-80 Glyceryl Cocoate

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-80 Glyceryl Cocoate?

PEG-80 Glyceryl Cocoate is a non-ionic surfactant produced by reacting coconut-derived fatty acids with glycerol to form glyceryl cocoate, followed by ethoxylation with 80 units of ethylene oxide. This creates a hydrophilic molecule with a balance of lipophilic and hydrophilic properties, ideal for personal care products like shampoos, shower gels, facial cleansers, and moisturizers. It works by lowering the surface tension of liquids, enabling dirt and oils to be suspended in micelles for easy rinsing. As an emulsifier, it stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions, preventing separation and ensuring smooth textures. Its solubilizing ability disperses water-insoluble components such as essential oils and fragrances, resulting in clear, homogeneous formulations. This ingredient supports mild foaming and enhances product rinse-off without harsh residue.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 1-4 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.

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.

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

Gentle surface tension reduction for effective yet non-stripping cleansing.

Stabilizes emulsions to maintain consistent lotion and cream textures.

Solubilizes oils and scents for clear, non-cloudy water-based products.

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 daily cleansers and shampoos needing mild surfactants.	Those sensitive to ethoxylated compounds.
Individuals formulating or using micellar waters and toners.	Users preferring completely natural, PEG-free formulations.
People with normal or oily skin preferring foaming bath products.	Individuals concerned about potential manufacturing impurities.

Safety Notes

Rated low to moderate hazard (EWG 1-4), safe as used in cosmetics per reviews.
Non-comedogenic (rating 0), unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-80 Glyceryl Cocoate

What is PEG-80 Glyceryl Cocoate used for?

Primarily as a surfactant, cleansing agent, solubilizer, and emulsifier in cleansers, shampoos, and lotions.

Is it safe for skin?

Generally safe with EWG rating 1-4 and non-comedogenic rating of 0.

Does it dry out the skin?

Designed for mild action, it cleanses without excessive stripping in balanced formulas.