PEG-12
What PEG-12 is & what it does
PEG-12 is a polyethylene glycol, a water-soluble synthetic polymer made by adding about 12 units of ethylene oxide to a glycol base. In cosmetic formulas it works mainly as a humectant and solvent, helping bind water and dissolve other ingredients so the product stays uniform. It is found in a range of leave-on and rinse-off products and is generally considered a low-irritation, well-tolerated ingredient. Higher-numbered PEGs like this one are lightweight and non-greasy in feel.
What is PEG-12?
PEG-12 is a polyethylene glycol, a water-soluble synthetic polymer made by adding about 12 ethylene oxide units to a glycol base. It is a common, multipurpose cosmetic ingredient used across many product types.
What does PEG-12 do in skincare?
It acts mainly as a humectant and solvent, binding water and helping dissolve other ingredients so the formula stays uniform. This supports a stable, even-feeling product.
Is PEG-12 safe?
PEG-12 is generally considered a low-irritation, well-tolerated ingredient at the levels used in cosmetics. As with any ingredient, very sensitive skin can respond differently, so patch testing a new product is reasonable.
Sunscreens with PEG-12
We rate 5 sunscreens that contain it:
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Cieffe Derma Hydralen Sun® Protezione Solare Pelli Sensibili E Arrossate SPF 50+
84/100
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Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50 (Japan Market)
79/100
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KATE Protection Ex SPF 50
78/100
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Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd Suncros Matte Finish Soft SPF 50+ Sunscreen Pa+++
73/100
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Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd La Shield Mineral Sports Sunscreen Gel SPF 50 +
72/100