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Polyethylene Glycol

What Polyethylene Glycol is & what it does

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) is a synthetic polymer of ethylene oxide available in a wide range of molecular weights. In cosmetics it serves as a humectant, solvent, and texture/viscosity modifier, and lower-weight grades help carry and dissolve other ingredients. It is water-soluble and contributes a smooth, non-greasy feel. PEG is a versatile base ingredient used across cleansers, creams, and many other formulas.

What is Polyethylene Glycol?

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) is a synthetic polymer of ethylene oxide that comes in many molecular weights. It is water-soluble and used as a versatile base ingredient.

What does Polyethylene Glycol do in skincare?

It serves as a humectant, solvent, and texture or viscosity modifier, and lighter grades help dissolve and carry other ingredients. It gives a smooth, non-greasy feel.

Is Polyethylene Glycol safe?

Cosmetic-grade PEG is generally considered safe and is used across many product types, with no concern flags noted here. Tolerance can vary on compromised skin.

Sunscreens with Polyethylene Glycol

We rate 4 sunscreens that contain it:

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