PEG-90

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-90?

PEG-90 is a polyethylene glycol, a synthetic polyether polymer produced through the polymerization of ethylene oxide, resulting in a chain with approximately 90 ethylene oxide units and a molecular weight around 4,000 Da. This makes it highly hydrophilic and soluble in water, distinguishing it from lower molecular weight PEGs. In cosmetics, it appears in categories like moisturizers, cleansers, shampoos, and pressed powders. Functionally, it binds solid particles in formulations to create cohesive structures, improving product integrity and application. As a humectant, it draws water from the environment into the skin's surface layers, supporting moisture retention. Its solvent capability dissolves lipophilic and hydrophilic actives, enabling even blending, controlled viscosity, and enhanced delivery without altering product feel significantly. Due to its larger size, PEG-90 remains mostly on the skin surface, minimizing absorption risks in typical rinse-off and leave-on uses.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 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

Boosts surface hydration by attracting and holding water.

Strengthens product structure for better durability and wear.

Facilitates ingredient solubility for smoother, more effective 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
Dry skin types needing extra moisture draw.
Those with known sensitivity to polyethers.
Users of makeup powders or sticks for improved cohesion.
People wary of potential manufacturing impurities.
Individuals seeking stable, easy-spreading formulations.
Preferers of entirely natural, non-synthetic ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use by expert panels with purity controls.
  • Low skin penetration expected from its polymer size.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-90

What does PEG-90 do in skincare?

It hydrates by drawing water, binds ingredients for stability, and dissolves actives for even formulas.

Is PEG-90 comedogenic?

It carries a non-comedogenic rating, unlikely to clog pores.

How safe is PEG-90 topically?

Cosmetic authorities consider it safe at typical concentrations with quality manufacturing.