PEG-4
What PEG-4 is & what it does
PEG-4 is polyethylene glycol with an average of four ethylene oxide units, a small water-soluble synthetic polymer. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it works mainly as a humectant and solvent, helping to dissolve other ingredients and keep the product smooth and uniform. Its low molecular weight also lets it act as a mild carrier that improves the texture and spreadability of a lotion or cream.
Is PEG-4 safe?
PEG-4 is widely used in cosmetics and is generally considered safe at the levels found in skincare and sunscreen products. It is a water-soluble polymer used as a humectant and solvent. As with any ingredient, sensitivity is possible, so patch testing a new product is a reasonable precaution if your skin reacts easily.
What does PEG-4 do in skincare?
PEG-4 acts mainly as a humectant and solvent in skincare and sunscreen formulas. It helps dissolve other ingredients and draws in water to keep the product smooth and uniform. Its small size also lets it improve the spreadability and texture of lotions and creams.
Is PEG-4 natural or synthetic?
PEG-4 is synthetic. It is made by linking ethylene oxide units into a small polymer, in this case averaging four units. It does not occur naturally and is produced through controlled chemical processing.
Sunscreens with PEG-4
We rate 8 sunscreens that contain it:
-
Physicians Formula Super Cc Correct + Conceal + Cover Cream Spf 30
83/100
-
Topicrem MELA Corrective Day Cream SPF 20
79/100
-
Novology SPF 50 Pa ++++ Tinted Sunscreen
78/100
-
Olay Regenerist Cc Cream Spf 15 Moisturiser
72/100
-
Lakme Sun Expert SPF 50 Pa+++ Ultra Matte Lotion Sunscreen
71/100
-
Olay Total Effects Bb Cream Moisturiser Foundation Spf 15 Fair
70/100
-
Olay Regenerist Luminous Brightening Moisturiser Cream Spf 20
68/100
-
Olay Natural White Miracle Fairness BB Cream Fair SPF 15
63/100