What Is Peg-5 Trimethylolpropane Trimyristate?
Peg-5 Trimethylolpropane Trimyristate is a lab made ester created by reacting trimethylolpropane, myristic acid from plant or coconut sources and about five units of ethylene oxide. The result is a wax like liquid that blends oil loving and water loving parts in one molecule. Chemists first explored this type of ingredient in the 1980s when the search for gentler, more reliable emulsifiers picked up speed. Because its raw materials are easy to source in large volumes and its performance is predictable, the cosmetic industry quickly adopted it.
Production begins with naturally sourced fatty acid, most often myristic acid, which is purified and reacted with trimethylolpropane to form a triester. This base is then partly “capped” with ethylene oxide to add the PEG units, giving the finished ingredient its Peg-5 label. Strict temperature control and vacuum conditions keep by products low and help reach the right average of five ethoxy groups.
You will meet Peg-5 Trimethylolpropane Trimyristate in face creams, body lotions, sunscreens, makeup foundations, cleansing balms and hair conditioners. Formulators value it for creating smooth, stable emulsions that feel light while delivering moisture and color evenly.
Peg-5 Trimethylolpropane Trimyristate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient plays a technical yet important role in many formulas.
As an emulsifying agent it helps oil and water mix and stay mixed. By lowering surface tension it prevents creams and lotions from separating so the product keeps its silky texture during storage and use. A reliable emulsion spreads more easily, feels smoother on skin and ensures active ingredients are delivered evenly with each application.
Who Can Use Peg-5 Trimethylolpropane Trimyristate
This emulsifier is generally well tolerated by most skin types including normal dry combination and mature skin. Its light waxy feel creates a soft finish without leaving a heavy film so even sensitive complexions usually handle it well. Very oily or highly acne prone users may prefer lighter formulas since any rich emollient can contribute to congestion if used in excess.
The raw materials are typically sourced from coconut or other plant oils so products made with certified plant based feedstocks are suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Anyone strictly avoiding animal derived ingredients should still check with the brand to confirm supply chain details.
Current safety reviews consider Peg-5 Trimethylolpropane Trimyristate a low risk ingredient for topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should have a doctor review any skincare product they plan to use to be on the safe side.
The molecule does not increase sun sensitivity and can be worn morning or night without raising the risk of UV related irritation. It is also odorless so it rarely interferes with fragrance preferences or triggers scent related discomfort.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from the topical use of Peg-5 Trimethylolpropane Trimyristate vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions only. When the ingredient is formulated correctly most users will not notice any problems.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or itching
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to polyethylene glycol compounds
- Clogged pores or breakouts on very oily or acne prone skin when used in heavy leave-on products
- Stinging or watering if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Folliculitis on areas with dense hair follicles if residue builds up
If you notice any unwanted reaction stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2/5
The molecule carries three myristic acid chains that could, in theory, sit on the skin and block pores, yet its five PEG groups add water affinity and keep the texture lighter and more rinseable than classic myristates like isopropyl myristate. This balance drops its pore-clogging potential to the low-to-moderate range. Most people with acne prone skin tolerate it when used in well-formulated products with non-greasy overall profiles, but those who break out very easily may still prefer to limit leave-on use.
Because comedogenicity also depends on the full formula, concentration and personal skin chemistry, a product containing Peg-5 Trimethylolpropane Trimyristate can feel perfectly fine on one person and trigger bumps on another.
Summary
Peg-5 Trimethylolpropane Trimyristate is an emulsifier that helps oil and water mix, stabilises creams and lotions and adds a smooth, lightweight feel. It works by pairing oil-friendly myristate tails with water-friendly PEG heads, forming a bridge that locks blends together and spreads evenly across skin or hair.
It enjoys steady popularity in moisturisers, sunscreens, liquid foundations and cleansing balms, though it is not as mainstream as polysorbates or glyceryl stearates. Formulators reach for it when they want reliable stability with a softer touch.
Current safety assessments label it low risk for irritation or toxicity in topical use. Still, individual sensitivities vary so it is wise to patch test any new product that features this ingredient before adding it to your daily routine.