What Is Peg-35 Lanolin?
Peg-35 Lanolin is a modified form of lanolin, the natural waxy material obtained from freshly shorn sheep wool. To create it, chemists attach about 35 units of ethylene oxide to each lanolin molecule in a process called ethoxylation. This step turns the original rich, heavy wax into a lighter, water-friendly ingredient that blends well with both oils and water.
Lanolin itself has been used for centuries as a skin protectant thanks to its ability to seal in moisture. Ethoxylated versions like Peg-35 Lanolin began appearing in cosmetic labs in the mid-20th century when formulators were looking for ways to make lanolin easier to work with in creams and washes. The ingredient is produced in controlled factory settings where raw lanolin is purified then reacted with ethylene oxide under heat and pressure until the desired average of 35 units is reached. After careful filtering and quality checks it is ready for cosmetic use.
Today you will most commonly spot Peg-35 Lanolin in facial cleansers, creamy body washes, makeup removers, moisturizers, hair conditioners, masks and even some leave-on serums where its dual oil-and-water loving nature helps keep formulas stable and skin-friendly.
Peg-35 Lanolin’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators lean on Peg-35 Lanolin for a few key jobs that improve how a product works and feels on your skin or hair.
- Cleansing: Its water-loving and oil-loving sides grab onto dirt, makeup and excess sebum then rinse them away with water, giving gentle yet effective cleansing without stripping the skin or scalp.
- Emulsifying: It helps mix oils with water so creams and lotions stay smooth, stable and pleasant to apply, preventing the formula from separating over time.
Who Can Use Peg-35 Lanolin
Most skin types can use Peg-35 Lanolin. Normal and dry skin often reap the biggest benefits because the ingredient helps keep moisture locked in while still rinsing clean. Oily and combination skin can usually tolerate it too since it is lighter than raw lanolin, though anyone extremely prone to breakouts may prefer oil free alternatives.
People with a known wool or lanolin allergy should avoid it because reactions are possible even after the ethoxylation process. If you have very sensitive skin or a history of eczema you may also want to be cautious, as lanolin derivatives can occasionally trigger irritation in these groups.
Peg-35 Lanolin comes from sheep wool, so it is not suitable for vegans or strict vegetarians who avoid animal derived ingredients. Those following plant based or cruelty free lifestyles will want to check labels for vegan certified substitutes.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are not expected to face special risks from topical Peg-35 Lanolin when it is used in a properly formulated product. This is not medical advice though, so anyone who is expecting or nursing should clear new skincare products with a healthcare professional first.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not considered photosensitising. It also plays well with most other common cosmetic ingredients which makes it easy to slot into an existing routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to Peg-35 Lanolin vary from person to person. The points below list possible side effects, yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is included at normal cosmetic levels.
- Allergic contact dermatitis – redness, itching and small bumps can develop in people allergic to lanolin
- General skin irritation – stinging or mild burning may occur on very sensitive or compromised skin
- Eye discomfort – if a cleanser containing Peg-35 Lanolin gets into the eyes it can cause temporary watering or sting
- Clogged pores in acne prone users – although less occlusive than raw lanolin, heavy or frequent application could contribute to whiteheads and blackheads for some
- Residue build up on hair – in hair care products overuse may weigh hair down or leave a coated feel
If you notice any unwanted reaction stop using the product and consult a medical professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2/5
Peg-35 Lanolin is lighter and more water compatible than raw lanolin, so it is less likely to block pores, yet it still has a waxy backbone that can sit on the skin. Most people will not notice problems at typical use levels but those who break out easily should watch for congestion if a formula contains a high percentage or is very rich.
Suitable for acne-prone skin: use with caution
How comedogenic the ingredient feels also depends on the overall product texture, how often it is applied and whether it is rinsed off or left on. Cleansers with Peg-35 Lanolin pose lower risk than thick leave-on creams.
Summary
Peg-35 Lanolin helps cleanse by surrounding oil and dirt so they rinse away easily and it keeps water and oil phases mixed, giving smooth stable creams and washes. These dual talents make it a handy workhorse for formulators.
It is a familiar but not headline-grabbing ingredient, showing up quietly in many mainstream cleansers, body washes and conditioners rather than trending spotlight products.
Overall safety is good when used at cosmetic levels, with the main concerns being possible lanolin allergy and mild pore blockage in some users. As with any new skincare item it is wise to patch test first to confirm your skin agrees with the formula.