Ingredient review
PEG-75 Shorea Butter Glycerides
INCI: PEG-75 SHOREA BUTTER GLYCERIDES
A gentle, water-friendly emollient that softens skin without a greasy feel, commonly used in rinse-off and leave-on products.
In plain English
This ingredient is a modified version of Shorea butter (a natural fat from the Shorea tree) that has been made water-soluble by attaching PEG (polyethylene glycol) chains. This allows it to mix easily into water-based formulas while still providing the moisturizing and softening benefits of the original butter. It helps products spread smoothly, leaves skin feeling silky, and is often used in cleansers and lotions to improve texture without clogging 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-75 Shorea Butter Glycerides 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 Shorea Butter Glycerides.
- 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 Shorea butter (a plant-derived fat) with PEG-75, a water-soluble polymer. The result is a glyceride that combines the emollient properties of the butter with the water compatibility of PEG.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, PEG-75 Shorea Butter Glycerides acts as an emollient and mild surfactant. It deposits a thin, non-greasy film on the skin or hair, reducing water loss and improving softness. Its PEG component helps it rinse away easily, making it ideal for cleansers and conditioners where a light, clean feel is desired.
Pros
Lightweight feel
Unlike pure Shorea butter, this ingredient is water-soluble and leaves a non-greasy, silky finish on skin and hair.
Versatile in formulas
Works well in both rinse-off and leave-on products, improving texture and moisturization without clogging pores.
Cons and cautions
Semi-synthetic origin
The PEG modification means it is not a fully natural ingredient, which may matter to those seeking pure plant-based options.
Potential trace impurities
PEG compounds can contain trace levels of ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane from manufacturing, though cosmetic-grade ingredients are purified to safe limits.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin looking for a light emollient
- Anyone using water-based cleansers or lotions who wants a silky finish without heavy residue
Use caution if
- Individuals with known sensitivity to PEG compounds or who prefer completely unmodified natural butters
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-75 Shorea Butter Glycerides is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. As with all PEG compounds, manufacturers must ensure low levels of impurities, which is standard practice in the industry.
Research notes
Safety assessments of PEG-modified ingredients are well-established. The CIR panel has reviewed PEG compounds and concluded they are safe in cosmetics. Specific studies on Shorea butter glycerides are limited, but the ingredient's components are widely used and accepted.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1% to 10%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has evaluated PEG compounds and found them safe at typical use levels.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Body washes, Hair conditioners
- Environmental note
- Shorea butter is a renewable plant resource, but PEG production is petroleum-derived. The overall environmental impact depends on sourcing and manufacturing practices.
Good to know
- Shorea butter is also known as Sal butter, derived from the Shorea robusta tree native to India.
- PEG-75 Shorea Butter Glycerides is considered safe by major cosmetic safety panels when used as intended.
Common questions
What is PEG-75 Shorea Butter Glycerides in beauty products?
This ingredient is a modified version of Shorea butter (a natural fat from the Shorea tree) that has been made water-soluble by attaching PEG (polyethylene glycol) chains. This allows it to mix easily into water-based formulas while still providing the moisturizing and softening benefits of the original butter. It helps products spread smoothly, leaves skin feeling silky, and is often used in cleansers and lotions to improve texture without clogging pores.
What does PEG-75 Shorea Butter Glycerides do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, PEG-75 Shorea Butter Glycerides acts as an emollient and mild surfactant. It deposits a thin, non-greasy film on the skin or hair, reducing water loss and improving softness. Its PEG component helps it rinse away easily, making it ideal for cleansers and conditioners where a light, clean feel is desired.
Is PEG-75 Shorea Butter Glycerides safe for most people?
PEG-75 Shorea Butter Glycerides is considered safe for cosmetic use. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. As with all PEG compounds, manufacturers must ensure low levels of impurities, which is standard practice in the industry.
Who should be careful with PEG-75 Shorea Butter Glycerides?
Individuals with known sensitivity to PEG compounds or who prefer completely unmodified natural butters
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.