PEG-20 Hydrogenated Lanolin

AKA: Polyethylene glycol 20 hydrogenated lanolin, PEG 20 hydrogenated lanolin
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Lanolin (Wool)
Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Barrier Lipid
Clean
Lanolin, hydrogenated, ethoxylated (20 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
68648-27-1
Form
Liquid
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
Lanolin has been used since ancient times as a skin protectant and emollient in wool processing and traditional European skincare. The PEG-20 hydrogenated version was developed in the 20th century to make lanolin water-soluble and easier to incorporate into modern cosmetic formulations.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not an Irritant
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
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