murphyLaneth-5
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: PEG-5 Lanolin, Polyethylene glycol 5 lanolin ether
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
OriginDerived from lanolin, a natural wax extracted from sheep's wool, then chemically modified through ethoxylation. Synthesized by reacting lanolin with ethylene oxide to create a polyethylene glycol ether derivative.
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
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
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.
Viscosity Controlling
Locks in moisture
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 / 1 irritating / 1 mixed / 1 not irritating / reactions minimal (CIR 226 and 581)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
4 studies / 1 irritating / 1 mixed / 2 not irritating (CIR 226 and 581)
Concentration Guide
Leave-onNot reported
Rinse-off0.8%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2010 survey
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR