PEG-20M
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol 20000000, PEG 20 Million
Synthetic
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-hydro-.omega.-hydroxy- (20,000 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
25322-68-3
Form
Powder
Functions
Binding
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Viscosity Controlling
Holds Formula Together
Stabilizes Emulsion
Controls Viscosity
Holds ingredients together
Keeps product blended
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
A high-molecular-weight polyethylene glycol polymer developed in the mid-20th century for cosmetic and pharmaceutical use. Created as a thickener and texture modifier to replace traditional plant-based gums and starches.
EWG
4
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
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️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