Ingredient review
PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate
INCI: PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate
A gentle synthetic emulsifier that helps mix water and oil in cleansers and creams, but may not suit those avoiding PEGs.
In plain English
PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate is a man-made ingredient that helps oil and water blend together in skincare products. It's often used in cleansers and lotions to create a smooth, even texture and to help rinse away dirt and makeup. The 'PEG' part means it's made with polyethylene glycol, a common emulsifier family. It's generally considered mild and low-risk for irritation, though some people prefer to avoid PEGs due to concerns about purity or environmental impact.
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
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate 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-23 Glyceryl Laurate.
- 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
PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate is a synthetic compound created by reacting lauric acid (a fatty acid from coconut or palm oil) with ethylene oxide. The '23' refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units, which determines its water solubility and emulsifying strength.
How it works
In a cosmetic formula, PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate sits at the boundary between oil and water droplets, reducing surface tension so they can mix into a stable emulsion. This prevents the product from separating and gives it a uniform, creamy feel. It also helps lift dirt and oil from the skin when used in cleansers.
Pros
Effective emulsifier
Helps oil and water mix smoothly, giving creams and cleansers a stable, pleasant texture that doesn't separate.
Low irritation potential
Generally well-tolerated on skin, with low risk of stinging or redness, even in rinse-off products.
Cons and cautions
Synthetic origin
Made from petroleum-derived ethylene oxide, which may be a concern for those seeking natural or plant-based ingredients.
Purity concerns
As with all PEGs, there is a small risk of contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, though reputable brands purify their ingredients.
Best for
- Anyone using standard cleansers or lotions
- People with normal to combination skin
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid PEGs or synthetic emulsifiers
- Individuals with known sensitivity to ethylene oxide derivatives
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of manufacturing, but reputable suppliers control this to trace levels. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential.
Research notes
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated PEG glyceryl laurate esters and found them safe as used in cosmetics. No significant human or animal studies indicate toxicity at typical exposure levels. Most evidence comes from safety assessments rather than efficacy trials.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions, subject to purity limits on 1,4-dioxane.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Lotions, Creams, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- PEG compounds are not readily biodegradable in all conditions, but they are generally considered low-risk for aquatic life at typical cosmetic concentrations.
Good to know
- PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate is considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel at concentrations up to 25%
- It is not the same as PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, which is more common in gentle cleansers
Common questions
What is PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate in beauty products?
PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate is a man-made ingredient that helps oil and water blend together in skincare products. It's often used in cleansers and lotions to create a smooth, even texture and to help rinse away dirt and makeup. The 'PEG' part means it's made with polyethylene glycol, a common emulsifier family. It's generally considered mild and low-risk for irritation, though some people prefer to avoid PEGs due to concerns about purity or environmental impact.
What does PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic formula, PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate sits at the boundary between oil and water droplets, reducing surface tension so they can mix into a stable emulsion. This prevents the product from separating and gives it a uniform, creamy feel. It also helps lift dirt and oil from the skin when used in cleansers.
Is PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate safe for most people?
PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of manufacturing, but reputable suppliers control this to trace levels. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential.
Who should be careful with PEG-23 Glyceryl Laurate?
Those who strictly avoid PEGs or synthetic emulsifiers Individuals with known sensitivity to ethylene oxide derivatives
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.