What Is Peg-75?
Peg-75 is a synthetic ingredient made by linking about 75 units of ethylene oxide to a base molecule called ethylene glycol. The result is a clear water-soluble liquid that blends easily with oils and other ingredients. Peg-based compounds have been part of personal care formulations since the 1950s when chemists discovered that adding repeating ethylene oxide units increased water compatibility and skin feel. Production starts with ethylene glycol derived from petroleum or plant fermentation. Through controlled exposure to ethylene oxide gas under heat and pressure, the chain length grows to the desired average of 75 units then the mixture is purified to remove residual gas and by-products.
Because it dissolves both water-loving and oil-loving substances it turns up in many product types: facial cleansers, sheet masks, hydrating toners, lightweight lotions, soothing after-sun gels, anti-aging serums and rinse-off hair treatments. Its flexible chemistry lets formulators create clear, stable and pleasantly textured products without heavy waxes or greasiness.
Peg-75’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Peg-75 offers several practical roles that improve how a product feels, functions and lasts on the skin or hair.
- Binding: Helps keep insoluble particles evenly suspended so pigments, clays or actives do not settle at the bottom of the bottle. This means a more uniform dose with every use.
- Humectant: Attracts and holds water from the air and deeper skin layers, adding a quick hit of surface hydration that leaves skin feeling softer and more supple.
- Solvent: Dissolves fragrances, botanical extracts and other additives that might otherwise separate, creating a clear stable formula and improving delivery of these ingredients to the skin.
Who Can Use Peg-75
Peg-75 is generally well tolerated by most skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry skin because it is lightweight and non-occlusive. Sensitive or highly compromised skin may occasionally find any PEG ingredient a bit reactive since broken barrier function can allow deeper penetration, so caution is advised for those experiencing active eczema or dermatitis.
The compound is synthetic and sourced from petroleum or plant-based feedstocks with no animal derivatives, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety assessments show no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Peg-75 is used at typical cosmetic levels, yet this is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should review their skincare routine with a doctor to be safe.
Peg-75 is not known to increase photosensitivity and does not require special sun precautions beyond normal daily SPF use. It is also odorless and colorless so it rarely interferes with fragrance or dye sensitivities.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Peg-75 differ from person to person. The following outlines potential side effects that could occur, yet they are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild stinging or burning on very compromised skin
- Transient redness or irritation in sensitive individuals
- Allergic contact dermatitis although documented cases are rare
- Increased penetration of other actives which may heighten their irritation potential
- Trace impurities such as 1,4-dioxane if manufacturing purification is substandard
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product immediately and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Peg-75 is highly water soluble and does not form a heavy film on the skin, so it has little tendency to trap oil or debris inside pores. The molecule rinses away easily and is used at low concentrations, keeping its clogging potential minimal.
Suitable for those prone to acne or breakouts, although overall formula context still matters.
Its excellent rinse-off profile means any residue left on the skin after cleansing or showering is minimal, further reducing the chance of pore blockage.
Summary
Peg-75 acts as a humectant that pulls moisture to the skin surface, a solvent that dissolves fragrances and actives for smooth delivery and a binding agent that keeps formulas stable and uniform. It pulls off these roles thanks to its long chain of ethylene oxide units which attract water while still being able to mingle with oils, giving chemists a flexible multitasker for clear lightweight products.
You will not see Peg-75 touted on front labels but it is quietly popular in labs because it improves texture and shelf life without adding greasiness. It shows up in everything from cleansers to serums at low unnoticed levels.
Current data classifies Peg-75 as low risk with only rare irritation concerns when properly purified. As with any new product it is smart to do a small patch test first so you can catch any unexpected sensitivities before full-face use.