PEG-20 Lanolin
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyethylene glycol 20 lanolin, PEG 20 lanolin
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Lanolin (Wool)
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Barrier Lipid
Not Clean
Lanolin, ethoxylated (20 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
61790-81-6
Form
Liquid
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.
Surfactant Cleansing
Surfactant Emulsifying
Moisturizing
Strengthens Barrier
Lifts away dirt and oil
Mixes oil and water
Traditional Use
Lanolin, derived from sheep's wool, has been used as an emollient and skin protectant since ancient times, particularly valued in traditional European skincare. The PEG-20 version was developed in the 20th century to make lanolin water-soluble for easier incorporation into cosmetic formulations.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not an Irritant
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-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR