Ingredient review
PEG-15 Lanolate
INCI: PEG-15 Lanolate
PEG-15 Lanolate is a gentle emulsifier derived from lanolin, but it may clog pores for acne-prone skin.
In plain English
PEG-15 Lanolate is a modified form of lanolin (a natural oil from sheep's wool) that has been made water-soluble by adding polyethylene glycol (PEG). This allows it to mix oil and water in creams and lotions, helping products feel smooth and spread easily. It also softens skin, but because it comes from lanolin, it can be comedogenic (pore-clogging) for some people.
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 low; clogging risk is moderate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- moderate
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
PEG-15 Lanolate 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-15 Lanolate.
- 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 semi-synthetic ingredient created by reacting lanolin with ethylene oxide to produce a water-soluble emulsifier. It retains the moisturizing properties of lanolin while improving its ability to blend with water.
How it works
In a cosmetic formula, PEG-15 Lanolate sits at the boundary between oil and water droplets, reducing surface tension so they mix into a stable emulsion. This prevents creams from separating and gives a smooth, uniform texture. It also deposits a thin film on skin or hair to reduce moisture loss.
Pros
Effective emulsifier
Helps create stable, smooth creams and lotions that don't separate over time.
Mild skin conditioning
Leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated without heavy greasiness, thanks to its water-soluble nature.
Cons and cautions
Pore-clogging potential
Derived from lanolin, it can be comedogenic for acne-prone skin, leading to breakouts.
Allergen risk
May cause contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to lanolin or wool alcohols.
Best for
- People with dry or normal skin looking for a gentle emulsifier
- Those who tolerate lanolin-based ingredients well
Use caution if
- Individuals with known lanolin allergy
- Acne-prone or oily skin types concerned about clogged pores
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-15 Lanolate is considered safe for most people when used in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concerns are potential comedogenicity and allergic reactions in lanolin-sensitive individuals. Manufacturing purity is important to avoid contamination with ethylene oxide.
Research notes
Studies on PEG lanolin derivatives show low acute toxicity and skin irritation. The CIR panel concluded these ingredients are safe as used in cosmetics. However, individual sensitivity to lanolin is well-documented, and comedogenicity varies by formulation.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–5% in leave-on products; up to 10% in rinse-off products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for cosmetic use in the EU, US, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated PEG lanolin derivatives and found them safe at typical use concentrations.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Makeup removers, Hair conditioners
- Environmental note
- PEG compounds can be persistent in the environment, but PEG-15 Lanolate is biodegradable under standard conditions. Lanolin is a byproduct of wool production, making it a renewable resource.
Good to know
- PEG-15 Lanolate is often used in 'water-soluble' lanolin products for easier rinsing.
- The number '15' refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units added, which determines its water solubility.
Common questions
What is PEG-15 Lanolate in beauty products?
PEG-15 Lanolate is a modified form of lanolin (a natural oil from sheep's wool) that has been made water-soluble by adding polyethylene glycol (PEG). This allows it to mix oil and water in creams and lotions, helping products feel smooth and spread easily. It also softens skin, but because it comes from lanolin, it can be comedogenic (pore-clogging) for some people.
What does PEG-15 Lanolate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic formula, PEG-15 Lanolate sits at the boundary between oil and water droplets, reducing surface tension so they mix into a stable emulsion. This prevents creams from separating and gives a smooth, uniform texture. It also deposits a thin film on skin or hair to reduce moisture loss.
Is PEG-15 Lanolate safe for most people?
PEG-15 Lanolate is considered safe for most people when used in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concerns are potential comedogenicity and allergic reactions in lanolin-sensitive individuals. Manufacturing purity is important to avoid contamination with ethylene oxide.
Who should be careful with PEG-15 Lanolate?
Individuals with known lanolin allergy Acne-prone or oily skin types concerned about 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.