What Is Peg-222 Pentaerythrityl Adipate-Succinimide Dendrimer?
Peg-222 Pentaerythrityl Adipate-Succinimide Dendrimer is a lab-made polymer with many tiny branches, built around a small core called pentaerythritol. Chemists first add about 222 units of ethylene oxide to the core, then join on adipic anhydride and a helper molecule named N-hydroxysuccinimide. These steps link up into a tidy tree-like shape that stays stable yet spreads easily on skin.
The ingredient showed up in cosmetic labs in the early 2000s when brands looked for lighter, smoother alternatives to heavy oils. Because its structure can hold both water-loving and oil-loving parts, it works well in modern formulas that need a silky glide without a greasy feel.
Industrial production follows the same three-step pattern: ethoxylation of pentaerythritol under controlled heat, reaction with adipic anhydride to add flexible arms, then treatment with N-hydroxysuccinimide to cap the chain ends. The finished dendrimer is filtered, purified and checked for purity before shipment to cosmetic makers.
You will most often see it in light moisturizers, anti-aging serums, facial masks, leave-on treatments, primers and even some color cosmetics that aim for a smooth skin finish.
Peg-222 Pentaerythrityl Adipate-Succinimide Dendrimer’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient pulls double duty in formulas, helping both the skin and the texture of the product itself.
- Skin conditioning: Forms a soft, flexible film that holds moisture on the skin surface so it feels smooth and looks fresh
- Emollient: Fills in rough spots between skin cells which leaves skin feeling softer and reduces visible dryness
Who Can Use Peg-222 Pentaerythrityl Adipate-Succinimide Dendrimer?
This lightweight polymer suits nearly every skin type. Its non greasy finish works well for normal oily and combination skin while the moisture-holding film gives dry skin a smoother feel. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it because it is free of fragrance and known irritants though anyone with a history of reactions to PEGs should proceed carefully.
The ingredient is made entirely in the lab from petrochemical building blocks so it contains no animal-derived content. That makes it appropriate for vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
Current safety data show no special risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Absorption through intact skin is minimal however this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show the full ingredient list of their skincare products to a qualified healthcare professional before use.
Peg-222 Pentaerythrityl Adipate-Succinimide Dendrimer is not known to make skin more sensitive to sunlight so normal daytime use does not require extra sun precautions beyond a standard SPF.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Peg-222 Pentaerythrityl Adipate-Succinimide Dendrimer vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects but most consumers will not experience them when the ingredient is used at the levels normally found in cosmetic products.
- Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin during initial applications
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis for individuals already sensitized to polyethylene glycols
- Transient clogging or bumpiness on highly acne-prone skin if the rest of the formula is heavy
- Eye irritation if a product containing the ingredient is accidentally rubbed into the eye area in high concentration
If any persistent irritation swelling or other unwanted effect occurs stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Peg-222 Pentaerythrityl Adipate-Succinimide Dendrimer is a large water-soluble polymer that spreads in an ultra-thin layer and rinses clean without leaving heavy residues, so it has little tendency to block pores. Its film is breathable and flexible, not waxy, which keeps oil from getting trapped underneath. People who break out easily can usually use it without problems although the overall formula and other ingredients still matter. Because the polymer is PEG-based it also mixes readily with water which further lowers clog potential. Only in very rich creams or when combined with known pore-cloggers might it edge higher on the scale.
Summary
Peg-222 Pentaerythrityl Adipate-Succinimide Dendrimer works mainly as a skin-conditioning emollient. Its branched structure forms a smooth micro-film that holds moisture and fills tiny surface gaps so skin feels softer and looks fresher. The water-loving PEG arms let it blend into lightweight lotions while the adipate segments give a silky slip, making it a handy texture enhancer too.
The ingredient is still a niche choice rather than a blockbuster, appearing mostly in newer serum and primer launches that aim for a velvety finish without heaviness. Formulators like its versatility but it has not reached household-name status yet.
Current safety reviews rate it low risk with minimal absorption and no known long-term concerns. As with any new skincare product it is wise to do a quick patch test first just to be safe, especially if your skin is reactive.