Peg-10 Propylene Glycol: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: July 1, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Peg-10 Propylene Glycol?

Peg-10 Propylene Glycol is a synthetic liquid ingredient created by attaching ten units of ethylene oxide to propylene glycol, which is a small organic alcohol. The result is a clear odorless fluid that blends easily with water and many oils. Because the number of ethylene oxide units is fixed at ten, manufacturers can predict its behavior in a formula with consistent moisture binding and solvent properties.

The parent compound propylene glycol has been used in personal care since the 1940s as a humectant. Chemists later discovered that adding ethylene oxide units improved its ability to dissolve ingredients and boosted skin-hydrating power, leading to the development of the PEG family. Peg-10 Propylene Glycol appeared on ingredient labels in the late 1980s when brands began seeking milder multifunctional solvents for water-based and hybrid emulsions.

Production starts with pharmaceutical-grade propylene glycol derived from petroleum or plant starch. Ethylene oxide is carefully fed into a reactor where it attaches to the propylene glycol backbone in a controlled chain-building process called ethoxylation. The reaction is purified to remove trace impurities, then quality-tested for consistency and safety before shipment to cosmetic makers.

You will most often find Peg-10 Propylene Glycol in lightweight moisturizers, hydrating masks, anti-aging serums, setting sprays, liquid foundations, cleansers and exfoliating toners. Its ability to pull in water and keep actives evenly dispersed makes it popular in formulas that promise long-lasting hydration or a smooth even finish.

Peg-10 Propylene Glycol’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient earns its spot on an ingredient list because it serves two helpful roles in one small dose

  • Humectant – attracts water from the environment and from deeper skin layers then holds it at the surface so products feel fresh and skin stays comfortably hydrated for longer periods
  • Solvent – dissolves water-soluble ingredients such as botanical extracts preservatives and certain vitamins ensuring the final product is clear stable and effective without leaving a sticky residue

Who Can Use Peg-10 Propylene Glycol

This lightweight humectant suits most skin types including dry oily combination and normal skin because it hydrates without leaving a greasy film. People with very sensitive or eczema-prone skin should approach with caution since any glycol derivative can sometimes heighten irritation if the skin barrier is already compromised.

Peg-10 Propylene Glycol is produced from petroleum or plant-based feedstocks and involves no animal-derived materials so it is generally considered appropriate for vegetarians and vegans.

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel classifies it as safe for topical use even in products that may be swallowed such as lip balms. Available data do not flag pregnancy or breastfeeding-related concerns, still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all skincare products with a qualified healthcare provider.

The molecule does not absorb UV light and does not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also has no known effect on hair color treatments self-tanning agents or other common cosmetic actives.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Peg-10 Propylene Glycol differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild transient stinging may occur on freshly exfoliated or broken skin
  • Redness or irritation in individuals with very sensitive skin or existing dermatitis
  • Allergic contact dermatitis is rare but has been reported with other glycols and could occur
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes especially in higher concentrations
  • Enhanced penetration of other actives which could intensify irritation from stronger ingredients present in the same formula

If any discomfort swelling or persistent redness develops discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 out of 5. Peg-10 Propylene Glycol is a small highly water-soluble molecule that readily evaporates or rinses away and does not leave an oily film on the skin. It lacks the long fatty chains that tend to block pores which is why it earns a non-comedogenic score.

That makes it generally suitable for acne-prone skin and formulas targeting breakouts.

Because it improves the spreadability of other ingredients, it can occasionally increase the penetration of heavier oils present in the same product, but on its own it will not clog pores.

Summary

Peg-10 Propylene Glycol serves as a humectant and solvent. It draws water to the skin surface so formulas feel light yet hydrating and it dissolves water-based actives ensuring they stay evenly mixed and effective.

The ingredient shows up in many modern gels, serums, toners and makeup sprays though it is not a marketing star like hyaluronic acid so most users never notice it on the label.

Extensive safety reviews rate it as low risk for irritation or allergy when used at normal cosmetic levels. Still every skin is different so patch testing a new product is always a smart move.

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