What Is Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate?
Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate is a plant-derived ingredient made from castor oil obtained from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. First the natural oil is hydrogenated, turning its liquid fatty acids into a more stable waxy form. Next it is ethoxylated with an average of 60 units of ethylene oxide, which boosts its ability to blend oil and water. Finally a portion of lauric acid, a fatty acid found in coconut and palm kernels, is attached to create the laurate version used in cosmetics. This multi-step process results in a gentle, water-soluble emollient that helps formulas feel smooth and spread easily.
The ingredient gained popularity in the mid-20th century when chemists looked for safer replacements for harsher detergents. Because of its balance of oil-loving and water-loving parts, it became a go-to helper in modern skin care. Today you will find Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate in facial cleansers, micellar waters, moisturizers, sheet masks, lightweight lotions, after-sun gels and many leave-on serums where a silky finish and mild skin feel are needed.
Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient mainly works as a skin conditioner, meaning it improves how skin feels and looks when you apply a product that contains it. By coating the surface with a fine layer of softness it reduces roughness, helps hold light moisture and leaves skin feeling smooth rather than greasy. It can also help disperse other ingredients evenly so the formula feels consistent from the first drop to the last.
Who Can Use Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate
Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate is generally well tolerated by most skin types including normal, dry, combination and oily. Its lightweight emollient nature means it softens without leaving a heavy residue, so even those prone to oiliness usually find it comfortable. Sensitive skin tends to do fine with it too because it lacks harsh cleansing agents, though anyone with a known allergy to castor oil derivatives or polyethylene glycols should be cautious.
The ingredient is plant derived and contains no animal by-products so it suits both vegetarians and vegans.
No data links Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate to hormonal disruption or fetal concerns, so products containing it are generally viewed as safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before starting new skincare, just to be safe.
The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so there is no added risk of photosensitivity. It also plays well with most other common cosmetic ingredients, making it a versatile choice in multi-step routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects, though most users experience none of these when the ingredient is used at typical cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or a stinging sensation
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to castor oil or PEG compounds
- Transient eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
- Very low risk of clogged pores in highly acne-prone users if used in rich leave-on formulations
If any uncomfortable reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5 (low risk)
Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate is highly water soluble thanks to its 60 units of ethylene oxide, so it rinses away rather than forming a thick occlusive film. The laurate modification also keeps the molecule relatively lightweight. These traits place it at the lower end of the comedogenic scale despite its castor oil origin.
Most people who are prone to acne or breakouts can use products containing this ingredient without noticing extra clogged pores.
As with any ingredient the final formula matters. If the product also contains heavy oils or waxes the overall pore-clogging potential can rise even if Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate itself is low risk.
Summary
Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate works mainly as a skin-conditioning emollient that softens and smooths while helping water and oil mix evenly. Its balanced structure lets it coat the skin lightly, improving texture and spreadability without leaving a greasy film.
The ingredient is not exactly a headline grabber but it is a reliable workhorse found in many cleansers, micellar waters, gels and lotions where a silky glide and gentle feel are needed.
Safety data show low irritation and minimal comedogenicity at typical use levels, making it suitable for most skin types including sensitive and acne prone. As with any new skincare product it is wise to do a small patch test first to ensure personal tolerance.