What Is Peg-75 Dilaurate?
Peg-75 Dilaurate is a synthetic ingredient formed by attaching about 75 units of ethylene oxide to dilauric acid, the fatty acid naturally found in coconut and palm kernel oil. The result is a waxy, water-soluble compound that combines the oil-loving nature of lauric acid with the water-loving nature of polyethylene glycol. Chemists began experimenting with polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivatives in the 1950s to improve the texture and stability of personal care products, and Peg-75 Dilaurate soon earned a place in cleansing and hair care formulas.
Production begins with lauric acid that is first converted into lauric acid chloride, then reacted with polyethylene glycol under controlled heat and pressure. The average of 75 ethylene oxide units keeps the molecule flexible enough to dissolve in water but still rich enough to interact with oils, which is why it excels at lifting dirt and makeup while helping oil and water mix.
You will most often see Peg-75 Dilaurate in facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, micellar waters, scrubs, masks, lightweight lotions and makeup-removing wipes. In many of these products it works alongside other surfactants to boost foam while making the overall blend feel softer on the skin.
Peg-75 Dilaurate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators include Peg-75 Dilaurate for two key roles that improve both performance and user experience.
- Cleansing: The molecule’s dual affinity for water and oil allows it to surround dirt, excess sebum and cosmetic residue so they can be rinsed away without leaving a heavy film. This gives cleansers a thorough yet gentle action that suits daily use.
- Emulsifying: Peg-75 Dilaurate stabilizes mixtures that contain both oil and water. By keeping these phases uniformly blended it prevents separation, extends shelf life and delivers a smooth, consistent texture in lotions, masks and washes.
Who Can Use Peg-75 Dilaurate
Peg-75 Dilaurate is generally well tolerated by all skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry skin. Its mild cleansing action makes it a comfortable option for sensitive skin although those with a history of reactions to PEGs should proceed with caution. It is non occlusive so it rarely aggravates acne-prone skin or clogs pores.
The ingredient is produced synthetically from plant-derived lauric acid and petroleum-derived ethylene oxide so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal by-products are involved in its manufacture.
Current safety data indicate no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals when Peg-75 Dilaurate is used topically in rinse-off or leave-on products. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review new products with a healthcare professional to be safe.
Peg-75 Dilaurate does not increase photosensitivity so routine sun protection practices are sufficient.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Peg-75 Dilaurate vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects but most users experience none when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as directed.
- Skin irritation such as mild redness stinging or dryness
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to polyethylene glycols or lauric acid derivatives
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally enters the eyes
- In very rare cases exacerbation of existing eczema or rosacea
If a negative reaction occurs discontinue use immediately and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Peg-75 Dilaurate is highly water soluble so it rinses clean without leaving a heavy residue that could block pores. Its molecule is large and designed to sit on the surface only long enough to lift away dirt and oil before being washed off. For these reasons it earns a low score of 1 rather than a perfect 0, simply because any surface-active agent has a minor chance of trapping dead skin if not rinsed well.
This low rating means Peg-75 Dilaurate is generally suitable for skin that is prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Most formulas that use Peg-75 Dilaurate are rinse-off cleansers which further lowers any risk of pore clogging.
Summary
Peg-75 Dilaurate works as a gentle cleanser and an emulsifier. Its mix of oil-loving and water-loving parts lets it surround grime then carry it away with water while also keeping oil and water blended so products stay smooth and stable.
It is a quiet helper rather than a star ingredient so you will not see it touted in ads yet it shows up in many everyday face washes shampoos and wipes because it improves feel and foam without much cost.
Current data show it is safe for use in both rinse-off and leave-on products with only a small chance of irritation for people who are sensitive to PEGs. As with any new skincare product do a simple patch test first to be safe.