What Is Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate?
Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate is an ingredient derived from palm oil. Chemically it is a blend of fatty acid monoesters of glycerin that have been hydrogenated, then reacted with roughly 200 units of ethylene oxide. This process turns the naturally oily palm components into a water friendly substance that can mingle with both oils and water.
The cosmetic world first explored hydrogenated palm derivatives in the mid-20th century when formulators needed plant based substitutes for animal fats. As emulsifier technology grew, chemists learned that adding polyethylene glycol (the PEG part) would boost the ingredient’s ability to dissolve and stabilize. Since then Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate has become a workhorse in modern skin care and personal wash products.
Manufacturing starts with responsibly sourced palm oil. The oil is split into fatty acids and glycerin, the fatty acids are hydrogenated to make them more stable, then the hydrogenated fatty acids are re-esterified with glycerin to form glyceryl palmate. Finally the compound is ethoxylated with controlled amounts of ethylene oxide to reach an average of 200 ethoxy units, giving the finished material its characteristic balance of oil-loving and water-loving parts.
You will typically spot Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate in facial cleansers, body washes, makeup removing wipes, cream-based masks, light moisturizers, hair conditioning rinses and shaving foams where it quietly improves texture and rinsability.
Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient contributes several helpful actions inside a formula:
- Cleansing: Its surfactant nature lifts away dirt, sweat and makeup and holds them in suspension so they rinse off easily
- Solvent: Helps dissolve oily residues and disperse fragrance or active ingredients evenly through water based products improving performance and clarity
- Emulsifying: Bridges oil and water phases in creams or lotions creating stable, smooth textures that resist separating over time which in turn enhances skin feel and shelf life
Who Can Use Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate
This ingredient plays well with almost every skin type. Its gentle cleansing action suits oily and combination skin while its non-greasy texture keeps normal and balanced skin comfortable. Most sensitive skin users also tolerate it because it is mild and free of added fragrance, though anyone with a known allergy to polyethylene glycols or palm derivatives should proceed with caution.
Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate is made from plant sourced palm oil and contains no animal by-products which makes it suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. Some consumers prefer products that use certified sustainable palm oil so checking for that certification may be important to you.
The ingredient has no data suggesting risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically in rinse-off or leave-on products. That said this is not medical advice and expectant or nursing mothers should review any skin care routine with their health professional to be completely sure.
Unlike certain acids or retinoids this material does not increase photosensitivity so there is no special need for added sun protection beyond normal daily sunscreen habits.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from one person to the next. The points below outline possible side effects of Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, but most users will not notice any problems when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation: A small number of people may feel temporary itching or burning, especially if their skin barrier is already compromised
- Redness or blotchiness: Short-lived flushing can appear if the skin reacts to the PEG part of the molecule
- Contact allergy: Very rare cases of allergic dermatitis have been reported with high molecular weight PEGs and the same could occur here
- Eye irritation: If the product splashes into the eyes it can cause watering or stinging until rinsed out with plenty of water
- Dry or tight feel: Overuse in cleansers may strip too much natural oil from already dry skin leading to a sensation of tightness
If you experience any persistent discomfort stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider.
Comedogenic Rating
Comedogenic rating: 1 out of 5. Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate is highly water soluble and does not form an occlusive film on the skin, so it is unlikely to trap oil or debris in pores. Its main job is to help oils break apart and rinse away, not to sit on the surface. Because of this it is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts. One thing to keep in mind is that the overall comedogenicity of a finished product depends on every ingredient in the formula, not just this one.
Summary
Peg-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate acts as a cleanser, solvent and emulsifier all in one. Its PEG side lets it grab onto water while its fatty acid side grabs oil, so it lifts grime then keeps oil and water blended into a smooth stable mix. You will find it in a wide range of face washes, micellar wipes, light lotions, hair conditioners and shaving foams, though it is more of a quiet workhorse than a star ingredient so most shoppers do not notice it on the label.
Safety data shows very low irritation and allergy rates when used at normal cosmetic levels, and its comedogenic rating is low. Still, every skin is different so it is a good idea to patch test any new product that contains it just to make sure your skin agrees.