Ingredient review
PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
INCI: PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
A gentle emulsifier that helps blend oil and water in cleansers and shampoos, but may be too stripping for very dry or sensitive skin.
In plain English
PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by attaching polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains to hydrogenated castor oil. It acts as a surfactant, meaning it helps water mix with oils and dirt so they can be rinsed away. You'll find it in many cleansers, shampoos, and makeup removers where it creates a mild lather and leaves skin feeling clean. While generally considered safe and low-irritation, some people with very dry or sensitive skin may find it slightly drying over time.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
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-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil.
- 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
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 semi-synthetic compound created by reacting hydrogenated castor oil with polyethylene glycol (PEG). The PEG chains make the oil water-soluble, allowing it to function as a surfactant and emulsifier.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing them to mix. In a cleanser, it surrounds oil-based impurities and helps water wash them away. It also stabilizes emulsions, preventing products from separating.
Pros
Effective cleanser
Helps dissolve and rinse away oil-based impurities like makeup and sunscreen without harsh scrubbing.
Gentle on most skin
Generally considered low-irritation and suitable for daily use, even on sensitive skin types.
Cons and cautions
Potential for dryness
Some users with very dry or eczema-prone skin may find it slightly stripping after repeated use.
Manufacturing concerns
PEG compounds can contain trace impurities like ethylene oxide if not highly purified, though reputable brands use purified grades.
Best for
- People with normal to oily skin looking for a gentle cleanser
- Anyone using oil-based makeup or sunscreen who wants effective removal
Use caution if
- Those with extremely dry or compromised skin barriers who prefer non-foaming cleansers
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. As with all PEGs, purity matters—choose products from reputable brands that use high-quality, purified ingredients.
Research notes
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed PEG derivatives and found them safe for use in cosmetics. Studies indicate low acute toxicity and skin irritation. No significant human data suggests harm at typical use levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA), EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed PEG derivatives safe when used as directed.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Conditioners, Facial washes, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- PEG compounds are generally biodegradable, but their production involves petrochemical-derived ethylene oxide. Some brands now use bio-based PEG alternatives.
Good to know
- PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is often used in 'micellar water' type cleansers.
- It is not the same as plain castor oil, which is heavier and more comedogenic.
Common questions
What is PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil in beauty products?
PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by attaching polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains to hydrogenated castor oil. It acts as a surfactant, meaning it helps water mix with oils and dirt so they can be rinsed away. You'll find it in many cleansers, shampoos, and makeup removers where it creates a mild lather and leaves skin feeling clean. While generally considered safe and low-irritation, some people with very dry or sensitive skin may find it slightly drying over time.
What does PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between water and oil, allowing them to mix. In a cleanser, it surrounds oil-based impurities and helps water wash them away. It also stabilizes emulsions, preventing products from separating.
Is PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil safe for most people?
PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is considered safe for cosmetic use at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. As with all PEGs, purity matters—choose products from reputable brands that use high-quality, purified ingredients.
Who should be careful with PEG-200 Hydrogenated Castor Oil?
Those with extremely dry or compromised skin barriers who prefer non-foaming cleansers
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.