What Is Peg-70 Hydrogenated Lanolin?
Peg-70 Hydrogenated Lanolin starts with lanolin, the natural protective wax secreted by sheep to waterproof their wool. This wax is first purified and hydrogenated to make it more stable and less prone to oxidation. It is then reacted with roughly 70 units of ethylene oxide, a process called ethoxylation, which attaches water-loving polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains to the molecule. The result is a soft waxy substance that mixes easily with both oils and water.
Lanolin has been valued for skin care since ancient times, but the PEG modification became popular in the mid-20th century when chemists looked for gentler, self-emulsifying ingredients for modern creams and cleansers. Today Peg-70 Hydrogenated Lanolin shows up in facial cleansers, makeup removers, moisturizers, leave-on hair conditioners, face masks, baby care lotions, sunscreens, and color cosmetics where a smooth, non-greasy feel is important.
Peg-70 Hydrogenated Lanolin’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking ingredient improves both the texture and performance of many formulas
- Cleansing: Its unique structure surrounds dirt, excess oil and makeup so they lift away easily when rinsed, leaving skin or hair feeling clean yet comfortable
- Emulsifying: Acts as a bridge between water and oil phases, creating stable creams and lotions that stay blended over time and deliver an even application
Who Can Use Peg-70 Hydrogenated Lanolin
Normal, dry and mature skin usually benefit from its softening and moisture-sealing properties. Oily or acne-prone skin may prefer lighter alternatives because the lanolin base can feel heavy and might contribute to congestion. Highly sensitive users with a known wool or lanolin allergy should proceed with caution.
Peg-70 Hydrogenated Lanolin is sourced from sheep wool so it is not suitable for vegans and may be avoided by some vegetarians.
No evidence suggests the ingredient is unsafe for pregnancy or breastfeeding when used in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm product choices with a healthcare professional.
The ingredient does not cause photosensitivity and there are no special sun-related precautions beyond normal daily sunscreen use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Peg-70 Hydrogenated Lanolin vary between individuals. The following are potential reactions, though most people will not experience them when the ingredient is used at standard cosmetic levels.
- Redness, itching or dermatitis in those allergic to lanolin or wool derivatives
- Clogged pores or mild breakouts on very oily skin
- Temporary stinging on broken or highly sensitized skin
- Mild eye irritation if product accidentally enters the eyes
If any adverse reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 2/5
Peg-70 Hydrogenated Lanolin starts from a waxy lanolin core that can sit on top of skin and trap dead cells yet the added PEG chains make it more water friendly so it rinses away more easily than pure lanolin. This balance places it in the low-to-moderate clogging range.
Because of this rating it may be fine for normal or dry skin but people who break out easily might want to steer toward lighter emulsifiers.
Formula type matters too. In a wash-off cleanser the risk is lower than in a heavy leave-on balm since contact time is short.
Summary
Peg-70 Hydrogenated Lanolin works as a cleanser helper and self-emulsifier. Its oil-loving lanolin part grabs dirt and makeup while the water-loving PEG side lets everything rinse away so formulas stay smooth and stable.
The ingredient enjoys steady use in classic creams and gentle cleansers yet its animal origin and the rise of plant-based options mean it is not as trendy as it once was.
Safety studies and decades of cosmetic use show it is generally well tolerated with only a small risk of irritation or clogged pores in sensitive groups. As with any new skincare ingredient doing a quick patch test on a small area first is a smart move.