Ingredient review
PEG-13 Mink Glycerides
INCI: PEG-13 MINK GLYCERIDES
An effective emulsifier with a controversial animal-derived origin; modern alternatives are widely preferred.
In plain English
PEG-13 Mink Glycerides is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by combining mink oil with polyethylene glycol (PEG). It helps oil and water mix in creams and lotions, and it can also soften the skin. However, because it comes from mink oil, it raises ethical and sustainability concerns, and many brands now avoid it in favor of plant-based alternatives.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Useful in the right context, but not low-maintenance
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Main practical flags: irritation is low; clogging risk is moderate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- moderate
Quick decision guide
Read the cautions before using
PEG-13 Mink Glycerides can be useful, but watch for possible clogging concerns.
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 PEG-13 Mink Glycerides.
- 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
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
moderateMay be fine for many users but deserves caution if you are breakout-prone.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A modified glyceride derived from mink oil, reacted with PEG (polyethylene glycol) to create a water-soluble emulsifier. It appears as a waxy solid or liquid and is used to blend oil and water phases in cosmetic formulations.
How it works
The PEG chain makes the mink oil glycerides water-friendly, allowing them to reduce surface tension between oil and water. This creates a stable emulsion (like a lotion or cream) and also leaves a thin, conditioning film on the skin or hair.
Pros
Effective emulsifier
Stabilizes oil-and-water mixtures, giving creams and lotions a smooth, uniform texture.
Mild skin feel
Leaves a light, non-greasy conditioning film that softens the skin without heavy residue.
Cons and cautions
Animal-derived origin
Sourced from mink oil, making it unsuitable for vegans and raising ethical concerns about animal farming.
Potential comedogenicity
May clog pores in acne-prone individuals, especially at higher concentrations or in rich formulations.
Best for
- Those using conventional, non-vegan skincare products
- People with dry skin looking for a mild emulsifier
Use caution if
- Vegans or those seeking cruelty-free products
- Acne-prone individuals who may experience clogged pores
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for topical use at typical concentrations, but the animal-derived source and potential for comedogenicity are drawbacks. Trace impurities from PEG manufacturing (e.g., 1,4-dioxane) are possible but controlled by good manufacturing practices.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed research specifically on PEG-13 Mink Glycerides. Safety is inferred from general PEG and glyceride data. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has evaluated similar PEG glycerides and found them safe as used, but mink oil itself is not widely studied in modern literature.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5–5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA) and EU (CosIng) within typical concentrations. No specific restrictions beyond general cosmetic safety requirements.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Hair conditioners
- Environmental note
- Mink farming for oil raises animal welfare and environmental concerns. PEG compounds can be persistent in water systems, though they are generally considered low-toxicity.
Good to know
- PEG-13 Mink Glycerides is rarely used in modern 'clean' beauty due to its animal origin and the availability of effective plant-based emulsifiers.
- The '13' refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units in the PEG chain, which affects water solubility.
Common questions
What is PEG-13 Mink Glycerides in beauty products?
PEG-13 Mink Glycerides is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by combining mink oil with polyethylene glycol (PEG). It helps oil and water mix in creams and lotions, and it can also soften the skin. However, because it comes from mink oil, it raises ethical and sustainability concerns, and many brands now avoid it in favor of plant-based alternatives.
What does PEG-13 Mink Glycerides do in a beauty product?
The PEG chain makes the mink oil glycerides water-friendly, allowing them to reduce surface tension between oil and water. This creates a stable emulsion (like a lotion or cream) and also leaves a thin, conditioning film on the skin or hair.
Is PEG-13 Mink Glycerides safe for most people?
Considered safe for topical use at typical concentrations, but the animal-derived source and potential for comedogenicity are drawbacks. Trace impurities from PEG manufacturing (e.g., 1,4-dioxane) are possible but controlled by good manufacturing practices.
Who should be careful with PEG-13 Mink Glycerides?
Vegans or those seeking cruelty-free products Acne-prone individuals who may experience clogged pores
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.