What it is
PEG-30 is a water-soluble polyethylene glycol with an average of about thirty ethylene oxide units, placing it among the higher-molecular-weight PEGs. It serves as a humectant that helps bind water, as a solvent for keeping ingredients in solution, and as a body- and viscosity-building component. Its predictable, mild behavior makes it common in skincare and sun care bases.
Safety & warnings
Higher-molecular-weight PEGs such as this are generally well tolerated on intact skin and are not recognized fragrance allergens or notable comedogens. Tolerability is considered good at the levels used in cosmetics, with manufacturing controls limiting residual impurities.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic; produced by the controlled polymerization of ethylene oxide to a defined average chain length.
Questions everyone asks
What is PEG-30 used for in sunscreen?
It functions as a humectant, solvent, and texture modifier, helping bind water, keep ingredients dissolved, and adjust viscosity.
How does PEG-30 differ from lower PEGs?
Its longer chain gives a higher molecular weight, which tends to add more body and a slightly different feel than shorter PEGs.