PEG-35 SOY GLYCERIDES

INCI: PEG-35 SOY GLYCERIDES | Function: Emulsifier, Emollient | Type: PEG Soy Glycerides (Ethoxylated soy glyceride emulsifier)

What Is PEG-35 SOY GLYCERIDES?

Polyethylene glycol derivatives of soy mono- and diglycerides, produced by ethoxylating soybean oil glycerides with 35 moles of ethylene oxide. They function as nonionic O/W emulsifiers and emollients, providing stable emulsions with a soft after-feel. The glyceride backbone gives them natural affinity for skin lipids.

Key Skin Benefits

+ Stable O/W emulsion formation — good for creams and lotions
+ Emollient effect — contributes to soft, smooth skin feel
+ Lipid-compatible — glyceride structure mimics skin lipids
+ Soy-derived — partially renewable origin

Pros

+ Effective nonionic O/W emulsifier with good stability
+ Emollient properties reduce the need for additional conditioning agents
+ Partially plant-derived from soybean oil
+ Well-tolerated, low irritation potential

Cons

− Ethoxylation by-product concerns (1,4-dioxane, ethylene oxide)
− Not natural despite soy origin — chemically modified
− May contain soy protein traces — rare allergen concern
− Limited biodegradability of PEG chains

Specifications

Property	Value
Usage Areas	Face, Body, Hair
Product Type	Leave-On, Rinse-Off
Source	Plant (Soybean)
Natural Level	Semi-synthetic

Safety Ratings

Metric	Rating
Skin Sensitivity	1/5 (very low)
Comedogenic Rating	1/5
EWG Score	3/10

Regional Regulatory Limits

Region	Leave-on %	Rinse-off %	Status
EU (CosIng)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
Japan (MHLW)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
ASEAN	No limit	No limit	Allowed
China (NMPA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed

Typical Usage % by Product Type

Product Type	Typical %
Moisturizing creams	1 - 5%
Cleansing balms	2 - 8%
Hair conditioners	1 - 3%

References

CIR (2010) — Safety Assessment of PEGs. https://www.cir-safety.org/
CosIng (2025) — European Commission Cosmetic Ingredient Database. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/
EWG Skin Deep — PEG compound safety database. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

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