What Is Peg-5 Hydrogenated Lanolin?
Peg-5 Hydrogenated Lanolin is a modified form of lanolin, the natural wax produced by sheep to protect their wool. In the lab the raw lanolin is first purified, then hydrogenated to make it more stable and less prone to going rancid. After that it is reacted with ethylene oxide, attaching an average of five ethylene oxide units to each lanolin molecule. This extra step turns the original oily wax into a water-friendly ingredient that mixes smoothly into creams and lotions.
Chemists began experimenting with ethoxylated lanolin in the mid-20th century when cosmetic formulas needed ingredients that could both soften skin and keep oil and water blended. Peg-5 Hydrogenated Lanolin answered that need and has stayed in use because it is reliable and skin-friendly.
The ingredient is made in a multi-step industrial process: clean lanolin is collected from washed wool, hydrogen gas is used to saturate the fatty chains, and controlled amounts of ethylene oxide are added under pressure. The end product looks like a soft yellow solid or thick paste that melts near body temperature.
You will see Peg-5 Hydrogenated Lanolin in many leave-on products such as face and body moisturizers, hand creams, lip balms, anti-aging formulas and overnight masks. It also shows up in rinse-off items like gentle cleansers and conditioning hair treatments where extra softness is desired.
Peg-5 Hydrogenated Lanolin’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient improves both how a product feels and how well it works on the skin
- Emollient – fills in microscopic gaps between skin cells to make the surface feel smoother and more flexible which cuts down on dryness and flaking
- Emulsifying – helps oil and water mix evenly so lotions stay creamy and stable over time preventing separation in the jar or bottle
Who Can Use Peg-5 Hydrogenated Lanolin
Peg-5 Hydrogenated Lanolin suits most dry, normal and combination skin types because it softens and locks in moisture without feeling overly greasy once properly formulated. Very oily or acne-prone skin may find it too rich since lanolin derivatives can sit on the surface and potentially clog pores if layered with heavy products. People with known lanolin allergy or extremely sensitive skin should approach carefully because the ingredient still carries some of the natural wool wax components that trigger reactions in a small group of users.
The ingredient is sourced from sheep wool so it is not considered vegan friendly even though no animals are harmed in its collection. Vegetarians who consume other wool-derived goods often accept it but strict plant-only consumers will likely avoid it.
No research indicates that Peg-5 Hydrogenated Lanolin poses a special risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically in cosmetic concentrations. This is general information, not medical advice, and anyone expecting or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products just to be safe.
Peg-5 Hydrogenated Lanolin is not known to increase photosensitivity so it does not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard sun protection habits are still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Peg-5 Hydrogenated Lanolin vary by individual. The following list covers potential issues that could occur although most users experience none of them when the ingredient is used correctly in finished products.
- Allergic contact dermatitis – redness, itching or rash in those sensitized to lanolin components
- Clogged pores or breakouts – possible in very oily or acne-prone skin when formulas are heavy or layered
- Stinging on compromised skin – rare mild discomfort if applied to cracked or highly irritated areas
- Eye irritation – temporary watering or burning if the product accidentally enters the eyes
If any irritation or unexpected reaction develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2 out of 5. Peg-5 Hydrogenated Lanolin is derived from lanolin which has a natural tendency to form an occlusive film on the skin. The hydrogenation and attachment of only five ethylene oxide units make it lighter and more water compatible than raw lanolin but it can still sit in pores when used at higher levels or in very rich formulas. Most people will not develop clogged pores yet those with oily or acne-prone skin could notice congestion if multiple heavy ingredients are layered alongside it.
In rinse-off products or lightweight emulsions the risk drops further because the ingredient is present at lower percentages and is washed away quickly.
Suitable for acne-prone skin only when used in low-oil or rinse-off formulas and avoided in heavy creams or ointments.
Summary
Peg-5 Hydrogenated Lanolin acts chiefly as an emollient and an emulsifier. Its softened waxy structure fills surface gaps making skin feel smoother while the attached ethylene oxide units allow it to bridge oil and water so lotions stay uniform and stable. This dual action means formulators can reduce separate thickening agents and still achieve a silky texture.
The ingredient enjoys steady but niche popularity. It shows up in traditional moisturizers and lip care more than in trend-driven serums because newer plant-based emulsifiers have eclipsed it for vegan markets, yet its reliability keeps it on many ingredient lists.
Overall safety is considered high with low irritation rates outside of known lanolin allergies. As with any new skincare addition it is wise to perform a simple patch test first especially if you have reactive or acne-prone skin.