What it is
PEG-10 is a low-molecular-weight polyethylene glycol, a water-soluble polymer used to attract moisture and dissolve or carry other ingredients. It helps fine-tune texture and keeps a formula uniform. PEG ingredients like this are frequently the backbone of cosmetic vehicles, including sunscreen bases.
Safety & warnings
PEG-10 is generally well tolerated and is non-comedogenic at typical use levels. Polyethylene glycols can in principle penetrate compromised skin more readily, so very low-grade or impurity concerns relate mainly to manufacturing quality rather than the ingredient itself; cosmetic-grade material is widely used without issue.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic, produced by polymerizing ethylene oxide to a defined average chain length.
Questions everyone asks
What does PEG-10 do in a formula?
It acts as a water-soluble humectant and solvent, drawing in moisture and helping keep the formula uniform and pleasant to apply.
What does the number 10 mean?
It indicates the average length of the polyethylene glycol chain; higher numbers correspond to longer, larger polymers.