Sodium PEG-7 Olive Oil Carboxylate

PEG / Ethoxylated
Benefits
Cleansing

What is Sodium PEG-7 Olive Oil Carboxylate?

Sodium PEG-7 Olive Oil Carboxylate is an anionic surfactant derived from olive oil fatty acids ethoxylated with seven moles of ethylene oxide and then carboxylated, forming a water-soluble sodium salt. This modification enhances its amphiphilic properties, allowing it to interact effectively with both oil and water. Primarily found in rinse-off personal care products such as shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and bubble baths, it functions by reducing surface tension to remove dirt, oils, and impurities from the skin and hair. Its structure enables the formation of micelles that encapsulate hydrophobic substances, facilitating their rinse-away. Additionally, it contributes to emulsion stability in formulations containing oil-water mixtures and boosts lather quality for a satisfying user experience. Derived from natural olive oil yet synthetically processed, it balances mildness with effective performance in daily cleansing routines.

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.
Foam booster
Enhances foam volume and creaminess and can stabilize lather, improving sensory feel and perceived cleansing in shampoos and wash-off products.
Hydrotrope
Improves solubility of poorly soluble ingredients (like fragrances) in water-based systems, helping maintain clarity and prevent separation or cloudiness.

Benefits

Provides gentle cleansing by effectively removing dirt and excess oils without harshness.

Enhances foam formation for a rich, creamy lather in shampoos and body washes.

Supports stable emulsions, improving product texture in cleansers and lotions.

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 mild, foaming cleansers for daily use on normal skin.
Those with known sensitivity to PEG compounds or ethoxylated ingredients.
People preferring surfactants derived partly from olive oil in rinse-off products.
People preferring completely natural, non-synthetic surfactants.
Users wanting clear, stable formulations without separation issues.
Individuals avoiding products with potential trace impurities from processing.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with a score of 3, indicating limited concerns for typical use.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores in cleansing products.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sodium PEG-7 Olive Oil Carboxylate

What is Sodium PEG-7 Olive Oil Carboxylate used for?

It serves as a surfactant in cleansers, shampoos, and body washes to enable foaming, emulsifying, and effective dirt removal.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Generally mild with low irritation potential, but patch test if sensitive to PEGs.

Does it clog pores?

Rated 0 for comedogenicity, making it suitable for acne-prone skin in wash-off products.