Methoxy PEG-16

AKA: Polyethylene Glycol Methyl Ether

Synthetic

Humectant

Solvent

Not Clean

OriginDerived from polyethylene glycol (PEG), a synthetic polymer created from petroleum-based ethylene oxide. Synthesized through ethoxylation and subsequent methoxylation of PEG base polymers.

Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-hydro-.omega.-methoxy- (16 mol EO average molar ratio)

CAS #

9004-74-4

Form

Liquid

Skin Types

●all-skin-types

Best For

General

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Yes

Functions

Humectant

A moisture magnet. Pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers up to the surface to keep skin plump and hydrated.

Solvent

Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.

Locks In Moisture

The paper trail

🔬Peer-reviewednone on file

⚖️Regulatory1 listing →

🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →

Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.

EWG

CIR

Safe as used

Pregnancy

Yes

Restricted By

Credo Beauty Whole Foods Premium Body Care Beauty Heroes MADE SAFE EWG VERIFIED

Concentration Guide

Leave-onNot reported

Rinse-off0.4%

0%50%100%

CIR reported use · report published 2012

Regulatory Status

USA✔ permitted

EU⚠ restricted

JAPAN⚠ restricted

CANADA⚠ restricted

Regulatory Agencies

EWG CIR FDA EU COSING Health Canada

Verified Jun 2026

Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR