Common Name(s): Peg-8 sesquioleate,peg-8 oleic acid (sesquiester: 1:1.5 ratio) ester,polyethylene glycol-8 oleic acid (sesquiester: 1:1.5 ratio) 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 ~7โ9 o/w emulsification and skin conditioning; the oleic acid (sesquiester: 1:1.5 ratio) chain provides natural affinity with skin lipids.
How It Works: 8 eo units give hlb ~7โ9; oleic acid (sesquiester: 1:1.5 ratio) 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 โ emulsifier
Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,surfactant,moisturizing
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: Oleic acid from plant; eo from petrochemical.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 โ 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: 1โ2.
Works Well With: Emollients,humectants,fatty alcohols,other peg emulsifiers
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Peg-8 esters of oleic acid (sesquiester: 1:1.5 ratio) provide hlb ~7โ9, appropriate for o/w emulsification and/or solubilization depending on oil phase. peg-8 sesquioleate; liquid due to oleyl chains; hlb ~7-9; balanced emulsification.
Last Verified: 2026-03-27
Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary,specialchem formulations