What it is
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is made by reacting hydrogenated castor oil with ethylene oxide, producing a water-dispersible nonionic surfactant. It excels at solubilizing oils, fragrances, and oil-soluble UV filters into water-based systems, helping create clear or lightweight textures. In sunscreens it supports emulsion stability and a fluid, non-heavy feel.
Safety & warnings
It is widely used and generally well tolerated at typical cosmetic levels. As an ethoxylated surfactant it can occasionally contribute to mild irritation in very high-surfactant systems or in highly sensitive individuals, but it is not a common allergen in finished products.
Origin & sourcing
It is a semi-synthetic ingredient produced by ethoxylating hydrogenated castor oil, which is itself derived from the castor bean plant.
Questions everyone asks
What is the main job of PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil?
It is a solubilizer and emulsifier that helps blend oils and fragrances into water-based formulas, supporting lightweight, stable textures.
Is it derived from castor oil?
Yes. It is made by chemically modifying hydrogenated castor oil, which comes from the castor bean plant.