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C12-20 Acid PEG-8 Ester

What C12-20 Acid PEG-8 Ester is & what it does

C12-20 Acid PEG-8 Ester is a synthetic ester formed from a blend of C12 to C20 fatty acids and polyethylene glycol with about 8 units of ethylene oxide. It functions as a nonionic emulsifier and surfactant, helping blend the oil and water phases of creams, lotions, and sunscreens. The PEG portion makes it water-dispersible, which supports stable, smooth emulsions.

What does C12-20 Acid PEG-8 Ester do in skincare?

C12-20 Acid PEG-8 Ester is an emulsifier and surfactant. It helps blend the oil and water phases of creams, lotions, and sunscreens into a stable, smooth product. Its PEG portion makes it water-dispersible, which supports even emulsions.

Is C12-20 Acid PEG-8 Ester natural or synthetic?

C12-20 Acid PEG-8 Ester is synthetic. It is made by combining a blend of fatty acids with polyethylene glycol. The fatty acid portion can be sourced from plant or other feedstocks, but the ester itself is manufactured.

Is C12-20 Acid PEG-8 Ester safe?

C12-20 Acid PEG-8 Ester is used as a cosmetic emulsifier and is generally considered safe at the levels found in skincare and sunscreen products. As with other PEG-based ingredients, quality manufacturers purify it to limit trace impurities. People with specific concerns can consult a qualified professional.

Sunscreens with C12-20 Acid PEG-8 Ester

We rate 13 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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