PEG-16 Macadamia Glycerides
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol 16 Macadamia Glycerides
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Tree Nut (Macadamia)
Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Clean
Glycerides, macadamia nut (Macadamia ternifolia) oil mono- and di-, ethoxylated (16 mol EO average molar ratio)
Functions
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A modern cosmetic ingredient combining polyethylene glycol with macadamia nut oil glycerides, where macadamia oil has been used by indigenous Pacific peoples for skin nourishment. Developed in the late 20th century to create a water-compatible conditioning ingredient.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
Dryness
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR