PEG-4 Diheptanoate

PEG-4 Diheptanoate 1
stock photograph
AKA: Polyethylene glycol 4 diheptanoate
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from ethylene oxide and heptanoic acid (a seven-carbon fatty acid), both petroleum-based chemicals. Synthesized through ethoxylation, where ethylene oxide is catalytically added to heptanoic acid molecules.
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-(1-oxoheptyl)-.omega.-[(1-oxoheptyl)oxy]- (4 mol EO average molar ratio)
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Locks In Moisture
Wound Healing
Antioxidant Protection
Mixes Oil & Water
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.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
1 study / 1 not sensitizing (CIR 689)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
2 studies / 1 irritating / 1 mixed / reactions slight to moderate (CIR 689)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
1 study / 1 mixed / reactions slight (CIR 689)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.02–14%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · 2014 survey
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR