What Is Peg-16 Macadamia Glycerides?
Peg-16 Macadamia Glycerides is a skin-conditioning ingredient derived from the rich oil of the macadamia nut (Macadamia ternifolia). Chemically, it consists of the mono- and diglycerides found in macadamia oil that have been joined with an average of 16 units of ethylene oxide. This pairing joins the oil-loving part of the nut with a water-friendly segment, creating a molecule that can slip into both oil and water phases of a cosmetic formula.
Macadamia oil has long been prized for its silky feel and high content of palmitoleic acid, a fatty acid similar to the skin’s own sebum. To make Peg-16 Macadamia Glycerides, manufacturers first separate the glycerides from cold-pressed macadamia oil. These glycerides are then reacted with controlled amounts of ethylene oxide, a process that enhances their ability to blend with water. The result is a creamy liquid or soft paste that dissolves easily into lotions, creams and cleansers.
The ingredient gained popularity in the 1990s when formulators began looking for plant-based alternatives to mineral oil derivatives. Its mildness, luxurious slip and compatibility with both natural and synthetic actives made it a favorite in spa-style moisturizers and leave-on treatments.
You will most often find Peg-16 Macadamia Glycerides in facial moisturizers, anti-aging serums, sheet masks, lightweight body lotions, creamy face washes and hair conditioners where a smooth, non-greasy finish is desired.
Peg-16 Macadamia Glycerides’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient improves both the feel and stability of many beauty products.
- Emollient: Softens and smooths the skin by filling in microscopic gaps on the surface, leaving a supple, moisturized feel without heaviness
- Emulsifying: Helps water and oil stay mixed so creams remain stable, spread evenly and deliver active ingredients more effectively
Who Can Use Peg-16 Macadamia Glycerides
Peg-16 Macadamia Glycerides generally plays well with most skin types. Its light emollient feel benefits dry normal and combination skin by adding softness without a greasy residue. Oily and acne-prone complexions usually tolerate it because it does not leave a heavy film, though anyone highly reactive to rich textures may prefer lower concentrations. Extremely sensitive or compromised skin should proceed cautiously only because any new ingredient can trigger irritation.
People with diagnosed tree nut allergies should check with a healthcare provider before use. While the protein content of this purified derivative is very low the source is still macadamia nut oil so extra vigilance is wise.
The ingredient is plant-derived and involves no animal origin components making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. The PEG part of the molecule is synthesized from ethylene oxide, not animal by-products.
Current data show no reproductive toxicity, so products containing Peg-16 Macadamia Glycerides are considered safe for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should have a doctor review their entire skincare routine to be sure it fits their personal needs.
It does not increase photosensitivity, meaning it will not make skin more prone to sunburn or UV damage. Standard daily sunscreen use is still advised for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Peg-16 Macadamia Glycerides vary from person to person. The points below outline potential but uncommon effects. When correctly formulated most users experience none of these issues.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness stinging or itching
- Contact dermatitis in individuals with tree nut allergies
- Eye irritation if a product accidentally enters the eyes
- Follicular congestion in very oily skin when used in high concentrations
If any irritation or discomfort develops discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2 out of 5
Peg-16 Macadamia Glycerides starts with macadamia oil, which on its own can clog pores for some people, but the PEG-16 modification makes the molecule far more water friendly. This improves rinse-off and reduces the chance of the ingredient sitting in pores. Because there is still an oil-derived part present the risk is not zero, so a low-to-moderate score of 2 is appropriate.
Most acne-prone users can usually tolerate products that contain this ingredient at normal levels, though very oily or congested skin might prefer lighter formulas.
Formulation matters: when combined with high-comedogenic oils or used in very rich creams the overall product could push the risk higher, while gel or lotion textures typically keep it low.
Summary
Peg-16 Macadamia Glycerides acts mainly as an emollient that fills tiny surface gaps for a soft feel and as an emulsifier that keeps water and oil mixed so creams stay smooth. The PEG portion lets it dissolve into the water phase while the macadamia glycerides anchor it in the oil phase, giving formulas a silky glide and stable texture.
It enjoyed a surge of interest when brands sought plant-based swaps for mineral oil but has settled into a quiet supporting role rather than superstar status. You will still spot it in many mid-range moisturizers cleansers and hair conditioners where a light cushiony finish is desired.
Existing safety data show very low irritation potential for most skin types, with the main caution being for those with nut allergies. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a product on a small area first to be sure your skin agrees with it.