PEG-9m

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-9m?

PEG-9M is a short-chain polyethylene glycol ether, chemically known as methoxypolyethylene glycol with approximately nine oxyethylene units. This synthetic ingredient is produced through the ethoxylation process, where ethylene oxide reacts with methanol under controlled conditions. It belongs to the class of polyethers widely employed in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics, such as lotions, creams, shampoos, and makeup products. In formulations, PEG-9M functions through its amphiphilic structure, featuring a hydrophobic methyl end and hydrophilic polyether chain. This enables it to reduce surface tension, facilitate the blending of oil and water phases, bind particulate matter for structural integrity, and modulate flow properties by interacting with water molecules to form viscous networks. Its solubility in water and many solvents makes it versatile for enhancing product consistency and performance across various delivery systems.

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.
Emulsion stabilizer
Improves emulsion robustness by preventing droplet coalescence and phase separation, often by thickening, structuring, or strengthening the interfacial layer.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Benefits

Supports emulsion stability to maintain uniform texture over time.

Acts as a binder to improve the cohesion and durability of solid cosmetics.

Controls viscosity for better spreadability and user-friendly application.

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 cream or lotion products seeking consistent texture.
Those sensitive to ethoxylated compounds.
Individuals preferring makeup with enhanced wear and integrity.
People concerned about potential manufacturing impurities.
People using shampoos or cleansers that require stable formulations.
Individuals with allergies to polyethylene glycol derivatives.

Safety Notes

  • Rated with moderate concern by safety databases due to possible contaminants from production.
  • Reviewed as safe for use in cosmetics by expert panels when purified properly.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-9m

What does PEG-9M do in skincare?

It binds ingredients, stabilizes emulsions, and controls thickness for better product performance.

Is PEG-9M comedogenic?

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

How safe is PEG-9M in cosmetics?

Cosmetic safety assessments consider it safe at typical use levels with proper purification.