What it is
PEG-20 is a polyethylene glycol with a somewhat longer chain than lower-numbered PEGs, giving it slightly different solubility and feel. It is used as a humectant and as a solvent or carrier that keeps ingredients evenly distributed. It is a common building block in cosmetic and sunscreen vehicles.
Safety & warnings
PEG-20 is generally well tolerated and non-comedogenic at usual levels. As with other polyethylene glycols, any concern relates chiefly to manufacturing purity rather than the polymer itself, and cosmetic-grade material is widely used without notable issue.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic, made by polymerizing ethylene oxide to a defined average chain length.
Questions everyone asks
How is PEG-20 different from PEG-10?
PEG-20 has a longer average polymer chain, which gives slightly different solubility and skin feel, but both serve as humectants and solvents.
Is PEG-20 hydrating?
Yes, it works as a water-soluble humectant that helps attract and hold moisture in the formula.