murphyPEG-400
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Polyethylene glycol 400, Macrogol 400, Carbowax 400
Synthetic
Emulsifier
Solvent
Clean
OriginPEG-400 is derived from ethylene oxide, a petrochemical compound belonging to the polyethylene glycol family. It is synthesized through the polymerization of ethylene oxide monomers under catalytic conditions.
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-hydro-.omega.-hydroxy- (400 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
25322-68-3
Form
Liquid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Binding
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Solvent
Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.
Moisturizing
Strengthens Barrier
Anti-Aging
Holds ingredients together
Keeps product blended
Dissolves other ingredients
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.
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR