Common Name(s): Peg-2 hydrogenated castor oil,peg-2 hydrogenated castor oil ester,polyethylene glycol-2 hydrogenated castor oil ester

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Helps oil and water blend together in creams and lotions while conditioning and moisturizing skin.

Why It's Used: Selected for hlb ~3–5 o/w emulsification and skin conditioning; the hydrogenated castor oil chain provides natural affinity with skin lipids.

How It Works: 2 eo units give hlb ~3–5; hydrogenated castor oil tail provides oil-phase anchoring and skin conditioning; nonionic character enables broad ph compatibility and electrolyte tolerance.

Typically Found In: O/w emulsions,creams,lotions,skin conditioning products

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emulsifier

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,surfactant,moisturizing

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Castor oil from ricinus communis; eo from petrochemical.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low

Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated. peg-based; trace 1,4-dioxane concern for certified organic use.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1–2.

Works Well With: Emollients,humectants,fatty alcohols,other peg emulsifiers

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Peg-2 esters of hydrogenated castor oil provide hlb ~3–5, appropriate for o/w emulsification and/or solubilization depending on oil phase. very low hlb; w/o emulsification; ricinoleic acid oh group adds mild hydrophilicity.

Last Verified: 2026-03-27

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary,specialchem formulations