PEG-4 RAPESEEDAMIDE

What Is PEG-4 RAPESEEDAMIDE?

A PEG-4 amide derivative of rapeseed (canola) oil fatty acids. The amide linkage makes this ingredient a mild non-ionic surfactant and foam booster, while the rapeseed oil source provides some emolliency. It is used primarily in rinse-off cleansing products to improve foam quality, add viscosity, and provide a gentle cleansing experience with a soft after-feel.

Key Skin Benefits

• + Mild surfactant — contributes to gentle cleansing without stripping natural oils
• + Foam boosting — improves the quality and stability of lather in cleansers and shampoos
• + Rapeseed-derived — sourced from renewable plant oil

Pros

• + CIR-reviewed — fatty acid amides considered safe in rinse-off products
• + Renewable plant source — rapeseed/canola is widely cultivated
• + Good biodegradability — amide link breaks down readily in the environment
• + Gentle — suitable for mild cleansing formulations

Cons

• − PEG content — ethoxylation introduces trace contaminant risk
• − May contain residual amide precursors — nitrosamine concerns in older formulations (regulated now)
• − Limited independent safety data on this specific amide
• − Not for leave-on products at significant levels — potential for irritation at high concentrations

Specifications

Safety Ratings

Regional Regulatory Limits

Typical Usage % by Product Type

References

1. CIR (2018) — Safety Assessment of Plant Oil-Derived Fatty Acid Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics.
2. Lin TK et al. (2018) — Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. Int J Mol Sci. PMID: 29280987.
3. CosIng (2025) — European Commission Cosmetic Ingredient Database. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/
4. EWG Skin Deep — Cosmetic Ingredient Database. https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/