What it is
PEG-60 is a water-soluble polyether built from repeating ethylene oxide units, where 60 reflects the average chain length. Higher-numbered PEGs like this one are typically waxy or semi-solid and act as humectants, solvents, and texture or viscosity modifiers rather than as surfactants. In sunscreens and other formulas it helps adjust feel, support stability, and carry other water-soluble ingredients.
Safety & warnings
Polyethylene glycols of this molecular weight have a long record of safe use in cosmetics and are non-comedogenic. As with all PEGs, reputable production controls trace 1,4-dioxane formed during manufacture. It is not a fragrance allergen.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic. It is produced by polymerizing ethylene oxide to the target average chain length.
Questions everyone asks
Is PEG-60 the same as PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil?
No. PEG-60 is a plain polyethylene glycol polymer, while PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is an ethoxylated castor oil emulsifier.
What does it contribute to a sunscreen?
It can act as a humectant, solvent, and texture modifier, helping carry water-soluble ingredients and fine-tune feel.