PEG-75

Good

Humectant

PEG-75 at a glance

  • Functions as a humectant to boost skin’s hydration 
  • May also be used as a solvent to mesh ingredients cohesively and enhance formulary texture 
  • Considered a higher molecular weight PEG
  • Proven track record as a safe skin care ingredient

PEG-75 description

PEG-75 is a type of polyethylene glycol. PEGs are amazingly versatile skin care ingredients in skin care because of their many uses and broad compatibility with different types of ingredients. PEG-75 can be used as a humectant (water-binding agent) to boost skin’s hydration. It can also be used as a solvent that improves the overall texture of a formula by making the ingredients mesh more cohesively. With any PEG ingredient followed by a number, the higher the number, the higher molecular weight of the ingredient. Thus, PEG-75 will feel more substantial on skin than, say, PEG-14. PEG-75 has many derivatives, including PEG-75 lanolin oil, PEG-75 stearate, PEG-75 shea butter glycerides, and PEG-75 propylene glycol stearate. Each offers its own distinct functions and properties. PEG-75 has been deemed a safe cosmetic ingredient by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Their report looked at concentrations between 0.2-36%.

PEG-75 references

  • CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed September 2021, ePublication
  • Toxicology, November 2005, pages 1-38
  • Journal of The American College of Toxicology, 1993, pages 429-457

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.