What Is Peg-18 Palm Glycerides?
Peg-18 Palm Glycerides is a plant-derived ingredient made by attaching short polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains to the natural glycerides found in palm oil from the Elaeis guineensis tree. The result is a soft, waxy material that mixes easily with both water and oil. Chemists started adding ethoxylated palm glycerides to cosmetics in the 1960s when they were looking for gentle yet effective ingredients that could smooth skin and keep formulas from separating. Production begins with refined palm oil. The oil is split to obtain glycerides, then reacted with ethylene oxide in a controlled environment until an average of 18 ethylene oxide units are added to each glyceride molecule. The finished ingredient is purified, tested for safety and shipped as flakes or a thick liquid to cosmetic manufacturers. You are most likely to see Peg-18 Palm Glycerides in face and body moisturizers, nourishing masks, anti-aging creams, sunscreens, liquid foundations, makeup removers and hair conditioners.
Peg-18 Palm Glycerides’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators rely on Peg-18 Palm Glycerides for two main reasons.
- Emollient – Softens and smooths the skin surface, helping dry or rough areas feel supple and comfortable while adding a light, non-greasy finish to creams and lotions
- Emulsifying – Holds oil and water together so the product stays creamy and stable, preventing separation over time and giving a pleasant, uniform texture
Who Can Use Peg-18 Palm Glycerides
Peg-18 Palm Glycerides is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive skin because it is lightweight and non-occlusive while still delivering softness. Very oily or acne-prone users usually handle it well too since it has a low tendency to clog pores, though individual experiences can differ.
The ingredient is plant based as it is derived from palm oil, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans provided the finished product has not been tested on animals and the brand sources its palm oil responsibly.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Current research shows no hormone-disrupting or systemic absorption concerns at the levels used in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should still show the product to their doctor before use just to be safe.
Peg-18 Palm Glycerides does not cause photosensitivity and will not make skin more prone to sunburn. There are also no known issues with using it alongside common actives such as retinoids, vitamin C or exfoliating acids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Peg-18 Palm Glycerides can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential issues that could occur in rare cases. When the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product most people will not experience any of these problems.
- Mild skin irritation such as stinging or itching immediately after application
- Allergic contact dermatitis presenting as redness or rash in individuals sensitive to palm derivatives or PEGs
- Temporary eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Breakouts in a small subset of users who are extremely acne prone
If you notice any persistent irritation swelling or other discomfort stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 (very low)
The added polyethylene glycol chains make Peg-18 Palm Glycerides more water compatible so it spreads in a thin layer rather than lodging inside pores. Studies and anecdotal feedback indicate it rarely sparks blackheads or whiteheads which is why the rating sits at 1. Most acne-prone users can use it without problems.
Keep in mind the finished product matters too; if the formula also contains heavy oils or waxes the overall pore-clogging risk can rise.
Summary
Peg-18 Palm Glycerides softens skin by forming a light conditioning film and keeps mixed oil-and-water formulas from separating, giving creams and lotions a smooth feel. It appears in many everyday moisturizers, sunscreens and makeup bases because it is dependable, affordable and plant derived, yet it stays under the radar compared with headline ingredients.
Research and long-term use point to a strong safety profile with minimal irritation or systemic concerns. Even so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains it to be sure your skin approves.