What Is Peg-192 Apricot Kernel Glycerides?
Peg-192 Apricot Kernel Glycerides is an ingredient made by joining the natural fats from apricot kernels with a controlled amount of ethylene oxide. The result is a mix of mono- and diglycerides that carry about 35 units of ethylene oxide each. This balance of oil and water-loving parts lets the material blend smoothly into modern skin and hair formulas.
Apricot kernel oil has long been valued for its lightweight feel and skin-softening traits. Chemists began turning it into Peg-based glycerides in the late 20th century when brands looked for plant-derived helpers that could replace heavier animal or mineral oils. By ethoxylating the glycerides, they made them water-dispersible, which opened the door to new textures in creams and cleansers.
The production process starts with cold-pressed apricot kernel oil. The oil is split to form mono- and diglycerides, then treated with ethylene oxide under heat and pressure. Careful washing and filtration remove any leftover reactants, leaving a creamy, pourable liquid that is mild in odor and pale in color.
You will spot Peg-192 Apricot Kernel Glycerides in moisturizers, daily lotions, soothing face masks, silky body butters, anti-aging serums, lightweight sunscreens, gentle cleansers and even some conditioning hair treatments.
Peg-192 Apricot Kernel Glycerides’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas this ingredient plays two key roles that improve both product feel and performance
- Emollient – softens and smooths the skin surface helping rough or flaky areas feel more supple without leaving a heavy film
- Emulsifying – bridges oil and water phases so creams stay stable and uniform boosting spreadability and preventing separation during storage
Who Can Use Peg-192 Apricot Kernel Glycerides
This ingredient is generally considered friendly for most skin types including normal, dry, combination and even sensitive skin thanks to its lightweight emollient nature that does not usually clog pores or feel greasy. Very oily or acne-prone users may still prefer lighter formulas, though Peg-192 Apricot Kernel Glycerides itself is not known to be comedogenic.
Because the starting oil is plant based and no animal-derived substances are used in the manufacturing process, products that rely on Peg-192 Apricot Kernel Glycerides can fit vegan and vegetarian routines.
No data suggest special risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is applied topically in cosmetic amounts. This information is not medical advice; anyone expecting or nursing should discuss all skincare choices with a qualified health professional.
The ingredient is not linked to photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Peg-192 Apricot Kernel Glycerides differ from one person to another. The points below describe potential side effects, yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used at typical cosmetic levels and produced under proper quality standards.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging, especially on compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to apricot oil components or polyethylene glycol compounds
- Rare clogged pores or breakouts in those extremely prone to acne
- Eye irritation if the raw ingredient gets into the eyes during DIY handling
If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
The ethoxylated design makes Peg-192 Apricot Kernel Glycerides disperse in water instead of sitting on the skin like straight oils. This reduces the chance of it blocking pores compared with raw apricot kernel oil, which averages a score of 2. Supplier tests and user feedback point to very few breakout reports, so the rating stays low.
It is generally fine for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Because it is normally used in lightweight creams and cleansers that rinse or absorb well, residue buildup is minimal which further limits pore congestion.
Summary
Peg-192 Apricot Kernel Glycerides works as an emollient and emulsifier. The apricot-derived glycerides soften and cushion the skin while the PEG side helps oil and water blend, keeping lotions silky and stable.
It enjoys moderate popularity, favored by brands that want a plant sourced alternative to heavier mineral or animal fats though it is less widespread than coconut based PEG esters.
Safety reviews show it to be low in irritation with a very low comedogenic score, making it a safe pick for most routines. Even so, do a quick patch test when you try any new product containing this ingredient just to be sure your skin is happy.