murphyLaneth-16
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: PEG-16 Lanolin, Polyethylene glycol 16 lanolin ether
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from lanolin, a waxy substance obtained from sheep's wool, then chemically modified with polyethylene glycol. Synthesized through ethoxylation of lanolin fatty alcohols to create a water-soluble surfactant compound.
Alcohols, lanolin, ethoxylated
CAS #
61791-20-6
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Lanolin (Wool)
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 226)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
3 studies / 2 irritating / 1 mixed / reactions minimal to weak (CIR 226 and 581)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
4 studies / 1 irritating / 1 mixed / 2 not irritating (CIR 226 and 581)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.08%
Rinse-off0.7–2%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2010 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR