PEG-32
Well toleratedHumectanthumectantsolventskin conditioning
No meaningful concern for most people; irritation is possible but rare.
Also written as: Polyethylene glycol 1500 · Macrogol 1540
What it is
PEG-32 is a longer polyethylene glycol, solid and waxy but readily water-soluble. Formulators use it to bind water, soften the feel of a formula and give body to gel and cream bases without adding oil.
What it does well
Binds water and softens texture without oiliness
Longer PEGs are used where hydration and slip are wanted in an oil-free system.
Moderate evidence
Where the EU stands
No specific restriction
No EU concentration limit. Ethoxylation residues are covered by Article 17 of the Cosmetics Regulation.
Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, Article 17 (traces of prohibited substances) · source ↗
