Ingredient review
PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
INCI: PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
A reliable, low-irritation emulsifier that helps mix oil and water in cleansers and creams, but may not suit those avoiding PEG compounds.
In plain English
PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by adding ethylene oxide to hydrogenated castor oil. It acts as a bridge between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a stable cream or lotion. You'll often find it in cleansers and makeup removers because it helps dissolve makeup and dirt without stripping the skin. It's considered very gentle and unlikely to clog pores.
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-5 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-5 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 emulsifier created by reacting hydrogenated castor oil with 5 units of ethylene oxide (PEG). It is a waxy, water-soluble compound that helps oil and water blend together in cosmetic formulas.
How it works
Its molecular structure has both water-loving (hydrophilic) and oil-loving (lipophilic) parts. When added to a formula, it reduces surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to form a stable emulsion. This makes it easier to rinse away oils and dirt with water.
Pros
Gentle on skin
PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil has a very low irritation potential, making it suitable for sensitive skin types and daily use.
Effective cleanser
It helps dissolve oil-based impurities like makeup and sunscreen, allowing them to rinse away cleanly without leaving a greasy residue.
Cons and cautions
PEG-related purity concerns
As a PEG compound, it may carry trace impurities like 1,4-dioxane if not properly purified. Reputable brands use high-quality, purified grades to minimize this risk.
Not natural
Despite being derived from castor oil, it undergoes chemical processing. Those seeking 100% natural or organic formulations may prefer alternatives.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a gentle, non-stripping cleanser or makeup remover
- People with oily or combination skin who want effective yet mild cleansing
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid PEG-derived ingredients due to personal preference or ethical concerns
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main safety concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, but reputable suppliers purify the ingredient to remove impurities. Regulatory bodies like the CIR and EU CosIng approve its use.
Research notes
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has evaluated PEG compounds and found them safe for cosmetic use when formulated properly. No specific studies on PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil alone were found, but its safety profile is consistent with other PEG-based emulsifiers.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–5% in most formulations
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and the European Commission. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed PEG compounds safe when manufactured to purity standards.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Makeup removers, Lotions, Creams
- Environmental note
- PEG compounds are generally biodegradable, but their production involves ethylene oxide, which is derived from fossil fuels. Some brands now use bio-based PEG alternatives.
Good to know
- PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is often listed near the top of ingredient lists in cleansing balms and milky cleansers.
- It is not the same as pure castor oil — it has been chemically modified to be water-soluble.
Common questions
What is PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil in beauty products?
PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by adding ethylene oxide to hydrogenated castor oil. It acts as a bridge between oil and water, allowing them to mix into a stable cream or lotion. You'll often find it in cleansers and makeup removers because it helps dissolve makeup and dirt without stripping the skin. It's considered very gentle and unlikely to clog pores.
What does PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil do in a beauty product?
Its molecular structure has both water-loving (hydrophilic) and oil-loving (lipophilic) parts. When added to a formula, it reduces surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to form a stable emulsion. This makes it easier to rinse away oils and dirt with water.
Is PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil safe for most people?
PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main safety concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, but reputable suppliers purify the ingredient to remove impurities. Regulatory bodies like the CIR and EU CosIng approve its use.
Who should be careful with PEG-5 Hydrogenated Castor Oil?
Those who strictly avoid PEG-derived ingredients due to personal preference or ethical concerns
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.