What Is Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate?
Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate is a plant-derived ingredient created by attaching about 120 units of ethylene oxide to methyl glucose, then reacting it with two molecules of oleic acid taken from natural fats such as olive or sunflower oil. The result is a large, water-loving molecule with two oil-loving tails, a structure that makes it excellent at bringing oil and water together.
It first appeared in personal care formulas in the late 1980s when brands were looking for milder alternatives to traditional detergents. Production starts with corn-based glucose, which is methylated to protect the sugar ring, ethoxylated under controlled heat and pressure, then esterified with purified oleic acid before final purification and quality checks. Thanks to its gentle profile and thickening power, you will often see it in shampoos, facial cleansers, micellar waters, bubble baths, baby washes, sheet masks, makeup removers, creamy body washes and conditioning hair treatments.
Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is prized for its single but important role in cosmetic science: emulsifying. By acting as a bridge between oil and water, it lets formulators create stable, uniform products that feel smooth and rinse easily. A good emulsifier stops layers from separating during storage, improves the texture and thickness of liquids or creams, helps active ingredients spread evenly on skin or hair and supports a gentle cleansing action without stripping natural moisture.
Who Can Use Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate
This emulsifier is considered gentle enough for all skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive. It has a very low irritation profile so even reactive or redness-prone skin usually tolerates it well. People with acne-prone skin can also use it because it is noncomedogenic and does not leave an occlusive film that could trap oil or debris.
The ingredient is sourced from corn glucose and plant oils which makes it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal-derived raw materials or by-products are involved in its standard manufacturing process.
Current safety data show no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full product label to a qualified healthcare provider to be on the safe side.
Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate does not absorb UV light or make skin more sensitive to the sun so it is not linked to photosensitivity. It is also compatible with most common skincare actives including acids, retinoids and niacinamide which means you normally do not have to worry about cross-reactions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate differ from person to person. The points below highlight potential side effects that could occur even though they are not expected for the majority of users when the product is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild skin irritation – rare transient stinging or redness, most often when used in very high concentrations
- Eye irritation – temporary tearing or discomfort if a foaming cleanser accidentally gets into the eyes
- Contact dermatitis – extremely uncommon allergic response presenting as itchiness or rash in individuals with specific sensitivities to PEGs
If you experience any of these issues stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic). Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate is a large, water-soluble molecule that does not linger on skin or form an oily film, so it does not clog pores or feed surface bacteria that can trigger breakouts. It is therefore suitable for people who are prone to acne or congestion. Because it functions mainly as an emulsifier and thickener in rinse-off and lightweight leave-on formulas, its concentration on the skin is usually low and temporary, further reducing any pore-blocking risk. There are no published cases linking this ingredient to acne flare-ups or folliculitis.
Summary
Peg-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate is a plant-derived emulsifier that pulls oil and water together to create stable, pleasant-feeling products. Its double oleic acid tails grab onto oils while the long polyethylene glycol backbone holds onto water, letting cleansers and creams stay uniform, spread easily and rinse clean without stripping moisture. Thanks to this reliable performance it shows up in a wide range of mainstream shampoos, face washes, makeup removers and baby bath products, though it is more of a behind-the-scenes workhorse than a headline ingredient.
Current safety data rate it as low-irritation, non-sensitizing and non-comedogenic, making it appropriate for most skin types including sensitive and acne-prone. As with any cosmetic ingredient, do a simple patch test when trying a new product that contains it to make sure your individual skin agrees.