PEG-18 | PEG-18

Category

Emulsifiers

PEG-18, also known as polyethylene glycol-18, is a synthetic material widely used in the cosmetics industry. Its chemical structure consists of a polyethylene glycol chain, which provides emollient and moisturizing properties. The main function of PEG-18 is as an emollient, helping the skin feel smooth and soft, as well as enhancing the effect of other ingredients. This substance is highly soluble in water, making it often found in creams, lotions, and other cosmetic products. Its origin is synthetic, but production is carried out using modern technologies, ensuring both safety and effectiveness. By using PEG-18, better results can be achieved in cosmetic products, providing the skin with the necessary moisture and comfort.

Purpose and Benefits

Besides its moisturizing properties, this ingredient boasts an excellent ability to create a cohesive texture in cosmetic products. It acts as a stabilizer, helping to maintain the consistency of products and ensuring that active ingredients are evenly distributed. This is especially important in creams or lotions, where each ingredient must work flawlessly for the skin to receive maximum benefit. PEG-18 allows products to remain pleasant to the touch and easy to apply, creating a feeling of comfort from the very first use. Another important advantage of this substance is its ability to enhance the effects of other ingredients. Due to its moisture-retaining properties, PEG-18 helps the skin better absorb active ingredients such as vitamins, antioxidants, or peptides. In this way, the products become more effective, and the results are noticeable faster. In addition, this ingredient blends perfectly with various components used in formulas, making it found in various product categories – from moisturizing creams to hair care products. Despite its synthetic origin, PEG-18 is considered a safe ingredient when used according to established norms. Its production process is carefully controlled to ensure the highest level of quality. When using cosmetics with this ingredient, the skin not only feels softer but also becomes more resistant to environmental irritants and retains moisture better. It is a subtle but effective element that helps create both aesthetically pleasing and functionally effective cosmetic products.

Security Information

This ingredient is considered quite stable and low-allergenic when it comes to its safety profile. However, as with any product, individual reactions can occur. Some people may experience sensitivity, skin irritation, or allergic reactions, especially if their skin is highly sensitive. Therefore, it is recommended to perform a patch test before using new products containing PEG-18. Regulatory authorities, such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European cosmetic regulations, approve the use of this substance in cosmetics, but it is always necessary to adhere to the specified norms and recommendations. It is important to note that while PEG-18 is considered safe, consumers should be attentive and monitor their skin’s reactions to ensure that products best suit their individual needs.

Sustainability and Extraction

The production of this ingredient relies primarily on synthetic processes, which can have a negative impact on the environment. While synthetic ingredients often guarantee consistency and effectiveness, the chemicals used in their production can cause pollution and resource waste. First, it is necessary to consider the energy consumption and emissions associated with the production process. Furthermore, although this ingredient can be reliably created, its origin indicates that it has no natural source, which may raise questions for consumers about its sustainability. Therefore, suppliers who are committed to environmentally responsible production processes that reduce the negative impact on nature and promote social responsibility should be sought. By addressing these aspects, greater sustainability and ethics can be pursued in the cosmetics industry.

Products

This ingredient is often found in creams, lotions, and serums. For example, in many moisturizing products such as “Cosrx Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream” or “Innisfree Green Tea Seed Cream,” PEG-18 contributes to smoothness and hydration. It is also found in hair care products, such as “Mise en Scene Perfect Serum,” where it helps create soft and shiny strands. In addition, this ingredient is also found in makeup products, such as “Etude House Double Lasting Foundation,” where it ensures that makeup is applied evenly and lasts long. Products of this nature help the skin look healthy and feel comfortable, so PEG-18 plays an important role in modern cosmetics.