What Is Methoxy Peg-3 Dehydrocholesteryl Succinate?
Methoxy PEG-3 Dehydrocholesteryl Succinate is a lab-made derivative of cholesterol that has been linked to a short chain of polyethylene glycol and a small part of succinic acid. The base cholesterol comes from plant or animal sterols that are purified then reacted with succinic anhydride to add the “succinate” piece. A second step attaches a methoxy-terminated PEG with an average of three ethylene oxide units, which boosts the ingredient’s ability to mix with both oils and water.
The idea of blending cholesterol with PEG dates back to the late 1980s when formulators looked for ways to deliver the skin-friendly feel of natural sterols while improving stability. Adding the succinate group further improved the molecule’s resistance to oxidation, which opened the door for its use in modern skin and hair care. Today many global suppliers list Methoxy PEG-3 Dehydrocholesteryl Succinate as a multi-tasking raw material for cosmetic chemists.
You will most often spot it in lightweight face moisturizers, protective day creams, anti-aging serums, leave-in hair treatments, sunscreens and BB creams. Because it can brighten texture without a greasy afterfeel it also appears in sheet masks and eye gels where comfort is key.
Methoxy Peg-3 Dehydrocholesteryl Succinate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This single ingredient pulls triple duty in a formula
- Antioxidant: Helps neutralize free radicals created by UV light and pollution which can otherwise break down oils, colors and active ingredients. By slowing oxidation it keeps the product fresh longer and supports healthier looking skin and hair
- Hair conditioning: Deposits a thin flexible film along the hair shaft that boosts shine and smooths the cuticle so strands feel softer and are easier to comb wet or dry
- UV filter: Absorbs a portion of UV radiation to give an extra layer of light protection that works alongside primary sunscreen actives. This can reduce photo damage and color fade in both skin and hair products
Who Can Use Methoxy Peg-3 Dehydrocholesteryl Succinate
Most skin types tolerate this ingredient well thanks to its balanced oil-and-water profile. It suits normal, dry, combination and oily skin because it conditions without leaving a heavy residue. Sensitive skin users usually do fine with it, although anyone with a known allergy to polyethylene glycols or cholesterol derivatives may wish to steer clear.
Whether the material is vegan or vegetarian friendly depends on the original sterol source. Some suppliers start with plant sterols from soy or wood pulp while others rely on lanolin-derived cholesterol. If animal-free status is important, check with the brand for sourcing details.
The ingredient is considered low risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women but safety data during these stages is limited. This is not medical advice; those who are pregnant or nursing should review any skincare product with their healthcare professional before use.
Methoxy PEG-3 Dehydrocholesteryl Succinate does not trigger photosensitivity. In fact its mild UV-absorbing ability can give formulas a small protective boost, though it never replaces a dedicated sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Methoxy PEG-3 Dehydrocholesteryl Succinate differ from person to person. The points below list potential issues yet they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild skin irritation
- Redness or itching in those with a PEG or cholesterol allergy
- Eye stinging if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Build-up on the hair shaft when overused in leave-in treatments, leading to temporary dullness
If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Methoxy PEG-3 Dehydrocholesteryl Succinate carries a small cholesterol-based tail, but the short PEG chain keeps it partly water compatible so it does not sit heavily inside pores. Most formulators use it at low levels for supportive roles, which further limits any clogging potential.
Because of this low rating it is generally fine for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind that overall formula design, not just one raw material, decides whether a finished product feels pore friendly. Heavy oils, waxes or silicones paired with this ingredient could still create a richer texture that some acne-prone skin dislikes.
Summary
Methoxy PEG-3 Dehydrocholesteryl Succinate acts as an antioxidant, a mild UV filter and a hair-conditioning agent. Its cholesterol segment hugs onto skin or hair, the succinate piece improves stability against oxidation while the PEG arm lets it blend into both water and oil phases so it can spread easily and do its job without leaving a greasy film.
Although it is not a headline-grabbing star it shows up in a fair number of modern moisturizers, sunscreens and leave-in hair products because chemists appreciate its multitasking abilities and low irritation profile.
Current safety data classifies it as low risk for most users with only rare reports of sensitivity. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is smart to patch test a small area when trying a fresh product just to be safe.