PEG-9
What PEG-9 is & what it does
PEG-9 is a polyethylene glycol, a synthetic polymer made by chaining together about nine units of ethylene oxide. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it works as a humectant and solvent, helping attract water and dissolve other ingredients into a uniform mixture. A notable property is its water-soluble, non-greasy character, which is why PEG compounds are common in lightweight, water-based products.
What does PEG-9 do in skincare?
PEG-9 is a polyethylene glycol used as a humectant and solvent. In skincare and sunscreen formulas it helps attract water and dissolve other ingredients into a uniform, water-based mixture. It is a formulation aid rather than an active ingredient.
Is PEG-9 natural or synthetic?
PEG-9 is a synthetic ingredient, made by chaining together about nine units of ethylene oxide into a polymer. It is produced industrially rather than extracted from plants. Its consistent, water-soluble character is one reason it is common in cosmetics.
Is PEG-9 safe?
PEG compounds like PEG-9 are widely used in cosmetics and are generally regarded as well tolerated in finished products at the levels used. As with any ingredient, individual sensitivities can occur. If you have specific concerns, consulting a qualified professional is sensible.
Sunscreens with PEG-9
We rate 18 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:
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SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50
85/100
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La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Spf 50
84/100
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La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultralight Mineral Sunscreen Spf 50
84/100
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La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Light Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50
84/100
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SkinCeuticals Sheer Physical Uv Defense Spf 50
84/100
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SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50
81/100
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B&B DERMA Sun-day Milky Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+
80/100
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SNP UV Perfect Air-safe Sun Cream
75/100
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Ns Beauty Tinted Sunscreen 4 In 1 With SPF
62/100
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Garnier Ombrelle Tinted Ultra Light Face Mineral Sunscreen Lotion Spf 60
49/100