Ingredient review
PEG-60 Castor Oil
INCI: PEG-60 Castor Oil
PEG-60 Castor Oil is a versatile, low-irritation emulsifier that helps mix oil and water in cleansers and makeup removers, but may not suit those avoiding PEG compounds.
In plain English
PEG-60 Castor Oil is a modified version of castor oil that has been processed with ethylene oxide to make it water-friendly. In simple terms, it acts like a bridge between oil and water, allowing them to mix together in products like makeup removers and cleansers. This ingredient is often used to create lightweight, rinse-off formulas that dissolve makeup and sunscreen without leaving a greasy residue. It is generally considered gentle on skin, but because it is made through a chemical process, some people prefer to avoid PEG compounds for personal or environmental reasons.
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-60 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-60 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
PEG-60 Castor Oil is a semi-synthetic ingredient created by reacting castor oil with 60 units of ethylene oxide (PEG). This process makes the naturally oil-loving castor oil water-soluble, turning it into an effective emulsifier and surfactant. It appears as a clear to slightly yellow liquid and is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, PEG-60 Castor Oil works by reducing the surface tension between oil and water. When you apply a cleanser containing it, the ingredient helps lift and surround oil-based impurities like makeup, sebum, and sunscreen. When you rinse with water, the emulsifier allows those oils to be washed away easily, leaving skin clean without a heavy film.
Pros
Gentle on skin
PEG-60 Castor Oil has a low irritation risk and is well-tolerated even by sensitive skin types when used in rinse-off products.
Effective makeup remover
It easily breaks down waterproof makeup and sunscreen, allowing for a thorough clean without aggressive rubbing.
Cons and cautions
Potential for trace contaminants
The PEG manufacturing process can create trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, though reputable brands purify their ingredients to minimize this risk.
Not natural
Despite being derived from castor oil, it undergoes chemical modification, so it won't appeal to those seeking entirely natural or organic products.
Best for
- People who wear heavy or waterproof makeup and need a gentle, effective oil-based cleanser
- Those with normal to combination skin looking for a non-stripping cleanser
Use caution if
- Individuals who strictly avoid PEG compounds or prefer 100% natural ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-60 Castor Oil is considered safe for cosmetic use by major regulatory bodies. The main safety consideration is the potential for trace contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, but reputable suppliers purify the ingredient to meet safety standards. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types.
Research notes
Research on PEG-60 Castor Oil focuses on its function as an emulsifier and surfactant. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed it and found it safe for use in cosmetics. Studies on similar PEG castor oils show they are well-tolerated and effective at removing makeup and sunscreen without disrupting the skin barrier.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1-10% in rinse-off products; 0.5-3% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed it safe as used in rinse-off and leave-on products, with a maximum concentration of 100% in rinse-off and 10% in leave-on.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Makeup removers, Facial oils, Shampoos, Body washes
- Environmental note
- PEG compounds are not readily biodegradable, which raises some environmental concerns. However, PEG-60 Castor Oil is less persistent than some other PEGs and is often used in small amounts.
Good to know
- PEG-60 Castor Oil is often listed as 'PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil' on labels—they are essentially the same ingredient.
- It is considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel at concentrations up to 100% in rinse-off products.
Common questions
What is PEG-60 Castor Oil in beauty products?
PEG-60 Castor Oil is a modified version of castor oil that has been processed with ethylene oxide to make it water-friendly. In simple terms, it acts like a bridge between oil and water, allowing them to mix together in products like makeup removers and cleansers. This ingredient is often used to create lightweight, rinse-off formulas that dissolve makeup and sunscreen without leaving a greasy residue. It is generally considered gentle on skin, but because it is made through a chemical process, some people prefer to avoid PEG compounds for personal or environmental reasons.
What does PEG-60 Castor Oil do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, PEG-60 Castor Oil works by reducing the surface tension between oil and water. When you apply a cleanser containing it, the ingredient helps lift and surround oil-based impurities like makeup, sebum, and sunscreen. When you rinse with water, the emulsifier allows those oils to be washed away easily, leaving skin clean without a heavy film.
Is PEG-60 Castor Oil safe for most people?
PEG-60 Castor Oil is considered safe for cosmetic use by major regulatory bodies. The main safety consideration is the potential for trace contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, but reputable suppliers purify the ingredient to meet safety standards. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential, making it suitable for most skin types.
Who should be careful with PEG-60 Castor Oil?
Individuals who strictly avoid PEG compounds or prefer 100% natural ingredients
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.