What Is Peg-80 Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleate?
Peg-80 Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleate is a liquid, plant-derived ingredient created by blending fatty acids from linoleic-rich vegetable oils with ethylene oxide. First the linoleic acid molecules are joined in pairs, then hydrogenated to make them stable and resistant to oxidation. Finally about 80 units of ethylene oxide are attached, giving the material the PEG (polyethylene glycol) portion that makes it water friendly.
PEG-based surfactants began appearing in personal care formulas in the 1960s when chemists looked for milder alternatives to traditional soaps. Peg-80 Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleate quickly gained popularity because it offered both cleansing power and the ability to keep oily and watery ingredients blended, letting brands create clear, gentle washes.
Today the ingredient is produced in large reactors where vegetable-sourced dimer dilinoleic acid is hydrogenated, then reacted with ethylene oxide under controlled temperature and pressure. The result is a viscous amber fluid that dissolves easily in water and blends smoothly with other surfactants.
You will most often find Peg-80 Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleate in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, micellar waters, bubble baths and makeup-removing wipes. Its dual action lets formulators reduce the total number of raw materials, which can translate into simpler labels and milder products.
Peg-80 Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This versatile ingredient supports a formula in two key ways
- Cleansing: Its surfactant structure lifts away oil, dirt and product buildup while producing a soft, creamy foam that rinses without stripping the skin or hair
- Emulsifying: It helps keep oil and water phases uniformly mixed, preventing separation so the product stays stable throughout its shelf life and feels consistent from the first use to the last
Who Can Use Peg-80 Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleate
Peg-80 Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleate is considered suitable for most skin types thanks to its mild detergent action and low likelihood of clogging pores. Oily and combination skin benefit from its ability to remove excess sebum while dry or sensitive skin generally tolerates it because it cleanses without the harsh stripping effect of traditional soaps. Extremely dry or compromised skin could still feel tight if cleansers containing high surfactant levels are used too frequently, so choosing formulas balanced with emollients is advisable.
The ingredient is plant derived and synthesized without animal by-products, making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. Manufacturers typically source the fatty acids from vegetable oils and the ethoxylation step involves petrochemical feedstocks, not animal origin materials.
Current cosmetic safety assessments have found no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Peg-80 Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleate is used as directed in rinse-off or leave-on products. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any skincare product with a qualified healthcare provider.
The molecule does not absorb UV light and does not make skin more sensitive to the sun, so no additional photoprotection measures are needed beyond a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen.
It is also compatible with most other cosmetic ingredients and has no known interactions that restrict its use with common actives like retinoids, vitamin C or exfoliating acids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Peg-80 Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleate differ from person to person. The issues listed below are only potential side effects and are unlikely to occur for the average user when the ingredient is used correctly by the manufacturer.
- Mild skin irritation – very sensitive individuals may experience temporary redness or stinging, especially if the product is left on for extended periods
- Contact dermatitis – rare allergic reactions can present as itching, flaking or rash in people who develop sensitivity to the surfactant
- Eye irritation – if shampoo or cleanser accidentally enters the eyes, it can cause watering or a brief burning sensation until rinsed out
- Dryness or tightness – overuse of high-foaming formulas may disrupt the skin barrier leading to a feeling of dryness, particularly in very dry climates
- Build-up on hair – infrequent but possible if products are not rinsed thoroughly which can leave hair looking dull or weighed down
If any unwanted reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 (very low)
Peg-80 Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleate is highly water soluble and designed to rinse away cleanly. It does not sit on the skin like heavy oils so it has little chance to block pores. The molecule is also large which further reduces its ability to lodge inside follicle openings.
Because of this low score the ingredient is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Most products using this surfactant are rinse-off cleansers which lowers the risk of residue-related congestion even more.
Summary
Peg-80 Hydrogenated Dimer Dilinoleate acts as a gentle cleanser and a reliable emulsifier. Its surfactant head loves water while its fatty tail grabs onto oils letting it lift away grime and keep oil-in-water mixes stable.
It shows up often in shampoos, face washes and micellar waters. While it may not have the name-recognition of trendy actives it is a quiet workhorse that formulators trust for mild yet effective cleansing.
Current safety reviews rate it as low risk when used as directed. Still, every skin is different so patch testing a new product that contains this ingredient is a smart step.