What it is
PEG-5 Rapeseed Sterol is produced by attaching an average of five ethylene oxide units to phytosterols from rapeseed (canola) oil. With fewer ethoxy groups than its PEG-10 counterpart, it is more oil-loving and contributes strong emollient, conditioning character while still helping to stabilize emulsions. It supports a soft, smooth skin feel in creams and sun care.
Safety & warnings
Ethoxylated plant sterols are generally mild and well tolerated, with low irritation potential at typical levels. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen. As a PEG-modified ingredient, manufacturers control residual ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane during production.
Origin & sourcing
Semi-synthetic. The sterol base is plant-derived from rapeseed oil, then ethoxylated with polyethylene glycol.
Questions everyone asks
How is PEG-5 Rapeseed Sterol different from PEG-10 Rapeseed Sterol?
It has fewer ethylene oxide units, making it more oil-loving and giving it more of an emollient character.
Where does it come from?
Its sterol portion is derived from rapeseed (canola) oil, then reacted with polyethylene glycol.