Ingredient review
Disodium PEG-8 Ricinosuccinate
INCI: DISODIUM PEG-8 RICINOSUCCINATE
A mild synthetic cleanser that helps remove dirt and oil without stripping the skin, but may cause irritation for very sensitive skin types.
In plain English
Disodium PEG-8 Ricinosuccinate is a man-made cleansing ingredient that helps water mix with oil so that dirt, makeup, and excess oil can be rinsed away. It is often used in gentle cleansers because it is less harsh than traditional soaps. However, like any surfactant, it can still be drying or irritating for some people, especially if used too frequently or left on the skin too long.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Main practical flags: irritation is moderate; clogging risk is low.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- moderate
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Disodium PEG-8 Ricinosuccinate can be useful, but watch for some irritation potential.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Disodium PEG-8 Ricinosuccinate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
moderateCan bother some users, especially with frequent use, damaged skin, or strong companion ingredients.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic surfactant derived from castor oil and succinic acid, modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) to improve its water solubility and mildness.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing the two to mix. This helps lift dirt and oil from the skin so they can be washed away with water. It also helps stabilize emulsions, keeping oil and water blended in a product.
Pros
Mild cleansing
It cleanses effectively without the harshness of sulfates, making it a good option for daily use on normal or oily skin.
Good emulsifier
It helps keep oil and water blended in a formula, which improves product texture and stability.
Cons and cautions
Potential irritation
Even though it is milder than some surfactants, it can still cause stinging, redness, or dryness for sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
PEG concerns
The PEG component may be contaminated with ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, though reputable brands purify their ingredients.
Best for
- People with normal to oily skin looking for a gentle cleanser
- Those who prefer sulfate-free cleansing options
Use caution if
- Individuals with very dry or compromised skin barriers
Usage tips
Safety summary
Disodium PEG-8 Ricinosuccinate is considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is potential irritation for sensitive skin and the possibility of trace impurities from PEG manufacturing. Reputable brands use purified ingredients to minimize risk.
Research notes
There is limited published research specifically on this ingredient, but it is chemically similar to other PEG-modified surfactants that have been evaluated for safety by cosmetic ingredient review panels. Its mildness is supported by its use in sulfate-free formulations.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Usually 1–10% in rinse-off formulas
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. Manufacturers are expected to keep PEG impurities low.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Facial washes, Shampoos, Body washes
- Environmental note
- PEG-based surfactants are generally biodegradable, but the production process can involve potentially harmful chemicals if not properly controlled.
Good to know
- This ingredient is often found in sulfate-free cleansers.
- It is considered biodegradable and less environmentally persistent than some other surfactants.
Common questions
What is Disodium PEG-8 Ricinosuccinate in beauty products?
Disodium PEG-8 Ricinosuccinate is a man-made cleansing ingredient that helps water mix with oil so that dirt, makeup, and excess oil can be rinsed away. It is often used in gentle cleansers because it is less harsh than traditional soaps. However, like any surfactant, it can still be drying or irritating for some people, especially if used too frequently or left on the skin too long.
What does Disodium PEG-8 Ricinosuccinate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing the two to mix. This helps lift dirt and oil from the skin so they can be washed away with water. It also helps stabilize emulsions, keeping oil and water blended in a product.
Is Disodium PEG-8 Ricinosuccinate safe for most people?
Disodium PEG-8 Ricinosuccinate is considered safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is potential irritation for sensitive skin and the possibility of trace impurities from PEG manufacturing. Reputable brands use purified ingredients to minimize risk.
Who should be careful with Disodium PEG-8 Ricinosuccinate?
Individuals with very dry or compromised skin barriers
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.