Common Name(s): Peg-20 hydrogenated castor oil triisostearate,peg-20 hco triisostearate modified hco,polyoxyethylene-20 hydrogenated castor oil triisostearate modified hco
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Helps oil and water blend and can dissolve oily ingredients into clear water-based products.
Why It's Used: Hlb ~9โ11 from peg-20 modification; hydrogenated castor oil provides stable ricinoleic-based core with triisostearate modified hco modification.
How It Works: Peg-20 units give hlb ~9โ11; hydrogenated castor oil core (12-hydroxystearic acid glycerides) provides oil-phase anchoring; triisostearate modified hco.
Typically Found In: O/w emulsions,clear formulations,oil solubilizers,fragrance solubilizers
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Functional ingredient โ emulsifier
Secondary Functions: Solubilizing,skin conditioning,surfactant
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%โ5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Castor oil from ricinus communis; hydrogenated; eo from petrochemical.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 โ non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated. peg-based; trace 1,4-dioxane concern for certified organic.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1โ2.
Works Well With: Fragrance oils,essential oils,other peg emulsifiers,humectants
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Peg-20 hco triple isostearate; hlb ~9-11 despite triple ester from lower eo count; branching prevents crystallization; balanced emulsification.
Last Verified: 2026-03-27
Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary