PEGs are a very broad group of chemical products used in numerous branches. PEG-23 is an ingredient of many cosmetic products such as make-up removal and face care cosmetics (masks, gels, creams). It acts as a solubiliser, stabiliser and moisturiser there. PEG-23 is also classified in the group of compounds called macrogols. As a macrogol, it is an ingredient of laxative preparations.
The surfactant with an INCI name PEG-23 is a derivative of polyethylene glycol. It belongs to compounds called macrogols. As a macrogol, PEG-23 is named Makrogol 1000. The CAS number, which often allows for the unequivocal identification of the compound, is 25322-68-3. In products, it mostly acts as a solvent and solubiliser.
PEG-23 comes as a solid with a waxy consistency that is white to light yellow. The solidification point of the pure substance is within the range of 35 to 40ᵒC. PEG-23 dissolves very well in water. The substance is safe and non-toxic.
PEG-23 meets strict quality requirements set out in the latest edition of the European Pharmacopoeia. Compounds that meet its criteria are called macrogols (a pharmacopoeial name given to polyethylene glycols used as ingredients of medicines or ointments). Macrogols are long-chain polyethylene glycols. They are primarily used in laxative preparations (including products for children). They are not absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Thus, as they remain in the intestinal lumen, they have an osmotic effect and retain water.
Macrogols with a high molecular weight (e.g. PEG-23) are combined with macrogols having lower molecular weights. High molecular weight polyethylene glycols usually come as waxy solids. Lower weight macrogols (with lower molecular weights) have a liquid form. If you mix them together, you will obtain a blend of a greasy consistency.
Moreover, PEG-23 has very good dispersing properties and thus provides a suitable base for ointments. As a dispersant, PEG-23 causes the decomposition of larger particles of components in pharmaceutical formulations. This prevents them from re-agglomerating. As a dispersant, it also helps to evenly distribute all the particles of ingredients throughout the formulation. Due to the dispersing effect and good solubility in water, PEG-23 is recommended for combining a number of active ingredients.
Other properties of PEG-23 include softening, solubilising, stabilising and moisturising properties. All of them contribute to the right consistency of a product and improve its performance.
When added to a formulation, it may increase its viscosity, i.e. improve the rheological properties of the product.
