Ingredient review
PEG-75 Castor Oil
INCI: PEG-75 Castor Oil
A gentle, water-soluble emulsifier that helps mix oil and water in cleansers and makeup removers, but may be drying for very sensitive skin.
In plain English
PEG-75 Castor Oil is a modified version of castor oil that has been made water-soluble by adding polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains. It acts as a bridge between oil and water, helping cleansers and makeup removers rinse away dirt and makeup without leaving a greasy residue. Because it's a surfactant, it can strip some natural oils from the skin, so it's best used in rinse-off products rather than leave-on formulas.
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-75 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-75 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 ingredient created by reacting castor oil with ethylene oxide to form a water-soluble emulsifier. It is commonly used in cosmetics to help mix oil and water phases and to dissolve fragrances.
How it works
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a stable emulsion. In cleansers, it helps lift and suspend dirt, oil, and makeup so they can be rinsed away easily.
Pros
Effective emulsifier
Creates smooth, stable emulsions that rinse cleanly without heavy residue.
Versatile in formulas
Works well in both rinse-off and leave-on products, and can help dissolve fragrances.
Cons and cautions
Potential for dryness
As a surfactant, it can strip natural oils, which may lead to tightness or irritation for dry or sensitive skin.
Processing concerns
PEG compounds may contain trace impurities like ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane if not purified, though reputable brands ensure safety.
Best for
- People with normal to oily skin
- Those who use oil-based makeup and need thorough removal
Use caution if
- People with very dry or compromised skin barriers
- Those who prefer completely PEG-free formulations
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-75 Castor Oil is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, but reputable suppliers purify the ingredient to meet safety standards.
Research notes
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel reviewed PEG castor oil derivatives and concluded they are safe as used in cosmetics. No significant skin sensitization or irritation was observed in clinical studies at typical use levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1–10% in rinse-off products; lower in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The CIR panel has deemed it safe as used in rinse-off and leave-on products.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Shampoos, Body washes, Makeup removers, Fragrance solubilizer
- Environmental note
- PEG compounds are generally biodegradable, but their production involves ethylene oxide, which is derived from fossil fuels.
Good to know
- PEG-75 Castor Oil is considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel at typical use levels.
- It is often used to solubilize essential oils in water-based sprays and toners.
Common questions
What is PEG-75 Castor Oil in beauty products?
PEG-75 Castor Oil is a modified version of castor oil that has been made water-soluble by adding polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains. It acts as a bridge between oil and water, helping cleansers and makeup removers rinse away dirt and makeup without leaving a greasy residue. Because it's a surfactant, it can strip some natural oils from the skin, so it's best used in rinse-off products rather than leave-on formulas.
What does PEG-75 Castor Oil do in a beauty product?
It reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to blend into a stable emulsion. In cleansers, it helps lift and suspend dirt, oil, and makeup so they can be rinsed away easily.
Is PEG-75 Castor Oil safe for most people?
PEG-75 Castor Oil is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, but reputable suppliers purify the ingredient to meet safety standards.
Who should be careful with PEG-75 Castor Oil?
People with very dry or compromised skin barriers Those who prefer completely PEG-free formulations
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.