What Is Peg-45 Bis-(Tocopheryl Succinate)?
Peg-45 Bis-(Tocopheryl Succinate) is a derivative of vitamin E that has been linked to polyethylene glycol (PEG) units. The “45” refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units attached to the tocopheryl succinate core. This hybrid structure blends the recognized skin-friendly profile of vitamin E with the water-soluble qualities of PEG, making it easier to incorporate into modern water-based cosmetic formulas.
The ingredient traces its roots to the early search for more stable and multifunctional forms of vitamin E. Chemists found that joining vitamin E to succinic acid improved its attachment points, then grafting it onto PEG chains boosted solubility and spreadability. Over time suppliers refined the process: vitamin E is first esterified with succinic anhydride, then reacted with ethylene oxide under controlled conditions until the average chain length hits 45 units. The result is a waxy to viscous material that disperses readily in both oils and water-rich bases.
Peg-45 Bis-(Tocopheryl Succinate) shows up most often in lightweight moisturizers, anti-aging serums, clay or sheet masks, scalp treatments aimed at oily roots, and even color cosmetics where formulators want antioxidant support without added greasiness.
Peg-45 Bis-(Tocopheryl Succinate)’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile ingredient earns its place in formulas thanks to two key functions
- Anti-Sebum: Helps moderate excess oil on the skin or scalp, giving products a mattifying effect and helping pores appear smaller. This can improve makeup longevity and reduce the shine that builds up throughout the day.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution which helps limit premature signs of aging like fine lines or rough texture. Its antioxidant action also protects other delicate ingredients in the formula, extending shelf life and maintaining product efficacy.
Who Can Use Peg-45 Bis-(Tocopheryl Succinate)
Thanks to its balanced oil-regulating and soothing properties Peg-45 Bis-(Tocopheryl Succinate) fits most skin types. Oily and combination skin appreciate the anti-sebum effect that helps keep shine at bay while normal skin benefits from the added antioxidant support without feeling heavy. Dry skin can still use it as long as the overall formula contains enough emollients because this ingredient itself is not particularly moisturizing. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well, although anyone with a known PEG sensitivity should stay alert.
The compound is made by reacting vitamin E that is typically sourced from plants or produced synthetically with petro-based ethylene oxide, so no animal-derived material is involved. That makes it suitable for vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished product is also free of animal testing and animal by-products.
No specific warnings have been issued for pregnant or breastfeeding women. The molecule is too large to be absorbed in meaningful amounts through intact skin and is not known to interfere with hormones. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show any new skincare product to a qualified doctor to be on the safe side.
Peg-45 Bis-(Tocopheryl Succinate) does not cause photosensitivity. In fact its antioxidant activity may lend a small supportive role when skin is exposed to sunlight, though it is not a substitute for sunscreen.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Peg-45 Bis-(Tocopheryl Succinate) can vary from person to person. The following list covers potential reactions yet most users will not experience any of them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used at typical cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or tingling
- Contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to PEG compounds
- Watery eyes or temporary stinging if a product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Rare allergic reaction marked by itching or small hives
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5 Peg-45 Bis-(Tocopheryl Succinate) is mostly water dispersible thanks to its PEG backbone and contributes little to the kind of surface film that can clog pores. Its vitamin E portion is present as an ester that is less greasy than pure tocopherol, so the overall molecule has minimal occlusive behavior. Because it helps manage excess sebum rather than add to it, this ingredient is generally considered friendly for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. Only extremely sensitive or PEG-reactive individuals might notice congestion in unusual cases.
Formulators often combine it with lightweight humectants and oil-control agents, which further lowers any clogging potential. As always the total formula matters more than a single ingredient, so a final product packed with heavy oils could still trigger breakouts even if this component rates low.
Summary
Peg-45 Bis-(Tocopheryl Succinate) delivers two big perks: antioxidant protection that scavenges free radicals and anti-sebum activity that helps keep skin and scalp shine under control. It achieves these benefits by pairing vitamin E’s free-radical fighting tocopherol core with a PEG chain that improves solubility and enables light textures that spread easily on damp or oily skin.
Although not as famous as pure vitamin E or newer buzzworthy antioxidants, it quietly appears in a fair number of moisturizers, serums, hair treatments and makeup primers where formulators want stable vitamin E power without heaviness.
Safety data show a low irritation profile when used at standard cosmetic levels, with rare issues limited mostly to those sensitive to PEGs. Still every skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains this ingredient before full-face or full-scalp use.