PEG-20 is primarily used in the beauty industry. It acts as a solvent for the active substances of cosmetic formulations. As a humectant, it also has a moisturising effect. The same properties of PEG-20 determine its use in the paints and printing inks industry and polymer processing. It is readily chosen by formulators in industrial sectors.
PEG-20 is a synthetic polymer that belongs to the group of polyethers. It is formed by the ethylene oxide polymerisation reaction. PEG-20 is an INCI name of the compound, while its full chemical name is polyethylene glycol 1000. Its CAS number is 25322-68-3. In products, it mostly acts as an emulsifier.
This surfactant has the form of a solid with a waxy consistency. Its colour varies from white to light yellow. It has a faint odour. A marketed product (e.g. POLIkol 1000 in the product range offered by the PCC Group) contains over 99% of the active substance. Water accounts for an up to 1% of the product and is considered an impurity; its low content does not have any substantial impact on the product quality. The molar mass of PEG-20 is approx. 1000 g/mol. The substance dissolves well in water. It is also soluble in low aliphatic alcohols such as methanol or ethanol. The pure substance solidifies at the temperature from 35 to 40ᵒC. It is safe and non-toxic.
PEG-20 is an ingredient of different types of cosmetics, where it mostly acts as a solubiliser, lubricant and humectant. As a solubiliser, it is used primarily in such cosmetic products that have water as a solvent. A solubiliser allows you to introduce into the emulsion fatty substances, fragrance compositions or other ingredients that are poorly soluble or insoluble in water.
Due to the moisturising properties of PEG-20 and its humectant nature, cosmetics that contain this ingredient are suitable for the care of dry skin or skin prone to dryness. Humectants such as PEG-20 retain water in the skin and prevent water loss. Thus they maintain the right moisture level and make the skin look healthy and nourished.
As regards cosmetic products, PEG-20 is present in foundations, beauty creams, soaps as well as toothpastes and hair styling products.
As a humectant and moisturiser, PEG-20 is one of the substances used in the paints and printing inks industry. Besides its unlimited solubility in water, PEG-20 absorbs water molecules from the environment (including air) and thus is a perfect drying time regulator.
PEG-20 is also used in the plastics industry. It is used in rubber and elastomer processing. It acts as an anti-adhesive agent in these processes. Such compounds primarily make it easier to separate the finished product from the mould. With the use of substances such as PEG-20, it is possible to enhance the process to a large extent, e.g. by reducing damage to products and moulds.
PEG-20 has been approved by an international organisation, i.e. the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for use as an indirect food additive. It is used as a lubricant in the food industry. Ensure to use doses as specified.
The anti-electrostatic properties of PEG-20 determine its use in the formulations of industrial cleaning agents and metalworking processes.
