What Is Peg-12 Ditallate?
Peg-12 Ditallate is a synthetic ingredient made by reacting tall-oil fatty acids with polyethylene glycol that averages 12 repeating ethylene oxide units. Tall oil is a by-product obtained during the pulping of pine and other coniferous trees. By linking these natural fatty acids to a water-loving polyethylene glycol chain, chemists create a molecule that has both oil-friendly and water-friendly ends, giving it surface-active properties.
The cosmetic industry started adopting Peg derivatives in the mid-20th century when formulators looked for safer, more efficient replacements for harsher surfactants. Peg-12 Ditallate gained popularity because it is gentle, versatile and works well in a wide pH range. Production involves purifying tall-oil fatty acids, then performing controlled esterification with polyethylene glycol under heat and vacuum. The result is a clear to slightly hazy liquid or soft paste that blends easily with other ingredients.
You will most often find Peg-12 Ditallate in facial cleansers, moisturizers, lightweight lotions, sheet masks and leave-on serums aimed at normal to dry skin. Its balanced oil-and-water profile lets it sit comfortably in both rinse-off and leave-on formulas, improving texture without feeling greasy.
Peg-12 Ditallate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Peg-12 Ditallate serves a single but important role in personal care products.
Emulsifying: It helps water and oil mix evenly, forming stable emulsions that keep creams smooth and prevent separation over time. This gives products a pleasant, uniform feel, boosts spreadability and enhances the delivery of both oil-soluble and water-soluble actives to the skin.
Who Can Use Peg-12 Ditallate
Peg-12 Ditallate is considered suitable for most skin types, including normal, dry, combination and sensitive skin, because it is mild and has a lightweight, non-greasy finish. Oily or acne-prone users can also tolerate it well since it does not typically clog pores, though individual responses can differ.
The ingredient is plant derived from tall-oil fatty acids and the polyethylene glycol portion is petrochemical based, so it contains no animal materials, making it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women regarding topical use of Peg-12 Ditallate. Systemic absorption is extremely low and the substance is not known to be endocrine active, yet this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm product choices with a physician to stay on the safe side.
Peg-12 Ditallate does not cause photosensitivity and can be worn during daytime without increasing sun-related risks. It is also compatible with a wide range of other skincare actives, so layering it with routine antioxidants, retinoids or acids is generally straightforward.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Peg-12 Ditallate can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects that could occur, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in well-formulated products.
- Mild redness or irritation, especially on already compromised skin
- Transient stinging or tingling immediately after application
- Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases of individual sensitivity
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If you experience any negative reaction, stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Peg-12 Ditallate carries a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. Its molecule is largely water soluble and designed to sit at the oil water interface instead of forming an occlusive film on skin pores, which keeps the likelihood of clogging low. The ingredient is therefore generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. Because it functions mainly as an emulsifier and is usually used at modest concentrations, buildup on the skin surface is minimal and it rinses away easily in cleansers or remains lightweight in leave-on products.
Summary
Peg-12 Ditallate is an emulsifier that helps oil and water combine into stable creams, lotions and serums. Its dual-natured structure anchors the oily phase while attracting water, preventing separation and giving formulas a smooth, spreadable feel. Although not as famous as some newer plant-based emulsifiers, it remains a quiet workhorse in many mainstream skincare and personal care products because it is reliable, easy to formulate with and cost effective.
Safety data classify it as low risk for irritation or sensitisation at the concentrations found in cosmetics, and it has negligible systemic absorption. Still, skin is individual so performing a quick patch test whenever you try a new product containing Peg-12 Ditallate is a sensible precaution.