Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)

Examples of ingredients:   PEG-1 Lauryl Glycol, PEG-4, PEG-8, PEG-10, PEG-10 Castor Oil, PEG-10 Cocoate, PEG-10 Dimethicone, PEG-90, PEG-100 Stearate, PEG-180, PEG-400, Polyethylene Glycol 35000.

Function:   Humectant, solvent, surfactant, emulsifying agent, hair conditioner, skin care agent.

Origin:   Synthetic.

Concentration allowed by the EU regulation:   Not regulated.

Where to find it / Where they are found?:   Foundation, styling creams/sprays, face creams, deodorants, body creams/milks, lipsticks, shaving creams, conditioners, soaps, shampoos, sun creams, eye creams, foot masks, hand creams, scrubs, face masks, face serums, hair dyes, hair masks, antiperspirants, bubble baths, concealers.

Health risks:   Potential skin irritant (low), potential allergen (low), potential percutaneous penetration, suspected carcinogen, suspected to be reprotoxic.

Environmental risks:   Polluting and toxic manufacturing process (ethoxylation), non-biodegradable.

Additional information:   The number following the acronym PEG indicates its approximate molecular weight.