Ingredient review
PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil PCA Isostearate
INCI: PEG-60 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL PCA ISOSTEARATE
A gentle emulsifier that helps mix oil and water in cleansers and creams, but may not suit those avoiding PEG compounds.
In plain English
This ingredient is a helper molecule that allows oil and water to blend together in a product, so you get a smooth, stable cream or cleanser. It's made from castor oil that has been chemically modified with PEG (polyethylene glycol) and isostearic acid to improve its ability to mix ingredients and cleanse the skin without stripping it.
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 Hydrogenated Castor Oil PCA Isostearate 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 Hydrogenated Castor Oil PCA Isostearate.
- 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 PEG-60 and isostearic acid. It belongs to a family of ingredients used to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions and improve the texture of cleansers.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to form a stable mixture. In cleansers, it helps dissolve makeup and excess oil, then rinses away easily without leaving a heavy residue.
Pros
Gentle on skin
It cleanses without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier, making it suitable for daily use.
Versatile emulsifier
Works well in both rinse-off and leave-on products, helping create smooth, stable formulas.
Cons and cautions
PEG-derived
Some consumers prefer to avoid PEG compounds due to concerns about potential impurities, though cosmetic-grade PEG is considered safe.
Mild cleansing power
May not effectively remove heavy or waterproof makeup on its own, often requiring a dual-cleansing step.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin looking for a gentle cleanser
- Those who prefer non-stripping makeup removers
Use caution if
- Individuals who specifically avoid PEG-derived ingredients
- Those with known sensitivity to castor oil derivatives
Usage tips
Safety summary
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar PEG compounds and found them safe when formulated properly. Minimal irritation risk for most skin types.
Research notes
Limited direct studies on this specific compound, but the safety of PEG derivatives and hydrogenated castor oil is well-established. Research supports their use as gentle emulsifiers and surfactants in skincare.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. Subject to purity standards for PEG compounds.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Makeup removers, Emulsions, Serums
- Environmental note
- PEG compounds are generally biodegradable, but their production involves ethylene oxide, which has environmental considerations.
Good to know
- PEG-60 indicates the number of ethylene oxide units, affecting water solubility
- Hydrogenated castor oil is a solid wax that helps thicken formulas
Common questions
What is PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil PCA Isostearate in beauty products?
This ingredient is a helper molecule that allows oil and water to blend together in a product, so you get a smooth, stable cream or cleanser. It's made from castor oil that has been chemically modified with PEG (polyethylene glycol) and isostearic acid to improve its ability to mix ingredients and cleanse the skin without stripping it.
What does PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil PCA Isostearate do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to form a stable mixture. In cleansers, it helps dissolve makeup and excess oil, then rinses away easily without leaving a heavy residue.
Is PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil PCA Isostearate safe for most people?
Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated similar PEG compounds and found them safe when formulated properly. Minimal irritation risk for most skin types.
Who should be careful with PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil PCA Isostearate?
Individuals who specifically avoid PEG-derived ingredients Those with known sensitivity to castor oil 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.