PEG-80 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
What PEG-80 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is & what it does
PEG-80 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is an ethoxylated derivative of hydrogenated castor oil, produced by reacting it with ethylene oxide. It works as a nonionic surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer, helping disperse oils and fragrances into water-based formulas such as cleansers and micellar products. It is water-soluble and commonly used to keep formulas clear and stable. It is not a UV filter and carries no concerns flagged here.
What is PEG-80 Hydrogenated Castor Oil?
It is an ethoxylated derivative of hydrogenated castor oil, used as a nonionic surfactant, emulsifier, and solubilizer. It helps disperse oils and fragrances into water-based formulas.
What does PEG-80 Hydrogenated Castor Oil do in a formula?
It keeps oils, fragrances, and water mixed and clear, which is why it appears in cleansers and micellar products. It is not a UV filter.
Is PEG-80 Hydrogenated Castor Oil safe?
It is widely used and generally considered safe at typical levels, with no concerns flagged here. Very sensitive skin may occasionally react to surfactants, so patch testing is sensible.
Sunscreens with PEG-80 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
We rate 4 sunscreens that contain it:
-
Kose Suncut Mint Green Color Tone Up UV Essence (2025) SPF 50+ Pa++++
80/100
-
Kose Decorte Sun Shelter Very Water Resistant Sunscreen SPF 50+ Pa++++
79/100
-
Kose Suncut Light Up UV Essence SPF 50+ Pa ++++
77/100
-
Kose Sekkisei Clear Wellness UV Sunscreen Tone Up SPF 35 / Pa+++
70/100