Ingredient review

PEG-23 Olivate

INCI: PEG-23 Olivate

A mild, olive-derived cleansing ingredient that helps lift dirt and oil without stripping the skin.

beautyskincaresurfactant

In plain English

PEG-23 Olivate is a gentle cleansing ingredient made by combining olive oil fatty acids with polyethylene glycol (PEG). It works like a magnet for both water and oil, helping to rinse away makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum without leaving skin feeling tight or dry. Because it's derived from olive oil, it's often considered a milder alternative to harsher sulfates.

Review score

Safety, usefulness, and evidence

4.0Good
4.0/ 5

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
How reviews are scored

Quick decision guide

Useful, but context matters

PEG-23 Olivate 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.

  1. Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging PEG-23 Olivate.
  2. Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
  3. 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

low

Less likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.

Clogging risk

low

Less likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.

Evidence level

moderate

There is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.

What it is

A semi-synthetic surfactant and emulsifier created by reacting olive oil fatty acids with PEG (polyethylene glycol). It belongs to the class of PEGylated oils, which are widely used in cosmetics for their ability to blend oil and water.

How it works

In a cleanser or emulsion, PEG-23 Olivate reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix. When you rinse, it helps carry away oily impurities and dirt, leaving skin clean without over-stripping natural moisture.

Pros

Mild on skin

Unlike sulfates, PEG-23 Olivate cleanses without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier, making it suitable for daily use on dry or sensitive skin.

Effective at removing oil-based impurities

It dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum easily, reducing the need for harsh scrubbing or double cleansing.

Cons and cautions

May contain trace impurities

PEG compounds can sometimes contain 1,4-dioxane or ethylene oxide residues if not properly purified during manufacturing. Reputable brands ensure these are removed.

Not fully natural

Despite being derived from olive oil, the PEG modification is a synthetic process, so it won't appeal to those seeking 100% natural or 'no synthetic' formulations.

Best for

  • People with dry or sensitive skin looking for a gentle cleanser
  • Anyone who wears makeup or sunscreen and wants an effective but mild oil-based cleanser

Use caution if

  • Those who strictly avoid all PEG compounds or synthetic processing
  • Individuals with known olive oil allergy (rare)

Usage tips

Use in a first-step oil-based cleanser to break down makeup before a water-based wash.
If your skin feels tight after cleansing, switch to a formula with PEG-23 Olivate as the main surfactant.

Safety summary

PEG-23 Olivate is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main safety concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, but reputable suppliers and brands test to ensure levels are below regulatory limits. It is non-irritating and non-comedogenic for most skin types.

Research notes

PEG derivatives have been extensively reviewed by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel, which concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics when formulated properly. Specific studies on PEG-23 Olivate are limited, but its safety profile is supported by the broader class of PEGylated oils.

Common label clues

Typical concentration
1–10% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on formulas
Regulatory status
Approved for use in cosmetics globally. In the EU and US, it is considered safe when manufactured to purity standards. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed PEG derivatives and found them safe for topical use.
Common uses
Cleansers, Makeup removers, Shampoos, Body washes
Environmental note
PEG-23 Olivate is biodegradable, but the PEG component can persist in the environment if not fully broken down. However, it is not classified as a major environmental concern.

Good to know

  • PEG-23 Olivate is often listed near the top of ingredient lists in cleansing balms and oils.
  • It is considered biodegradable and generally safe for aquatic environments at typical use levels.

Common questions

What is PEG-23 Olivate in beauty products?

PEG-23 Olivate is a gentle cleansing ingredient made by combining olive oil fatty acids with polyethylene glycol (PEG). It works like a magnet for both water and oil, helping to rinse away makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum without leaving skin feeling tight or dry. Because it's derived from olive oil, it's often considered a milder alternative to harsher sulfates.

What does PEG-23 Olivate do in a beauty product?

In a cleanser or emulsion, PEG-23 Olivate reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to mix. When you rinse, it helps carry away oily impurities and dirt, leaving skin clean without over-stripping natural moisture.

Is PEG-23 Olivate safe for most people?

PEG-23 Olivate is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main safety concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, but reputable suppliers and brands test to ensure levels are below regulatory limits. It is non-irritating and non-comedogenic for most skin types.

Who should be careful with PEG-23 Olivate?

Those who strictly avoid all PEG compounds or synthetic processing Individuals with known olive oil allergy (rare)

Research sources

Cosmetic Ingredient Review – Safety Assessment of PEGsOpenPubChem – PEG-23 OlivateOpenEWG Skin Deep – PEG-23 OlivateOpen

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.