Skip to content

Thickener

PEG-180

CAS 25322-68-3
76

Safety score · 0–100

Fine

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

A high-molecular-weight polyethylene glycol used to thicken and solubilize. Safe at cosmetic-grade purity; the only real flag is keeping 1,4-dioxane traces low.

Skin benefits

  • Water-soluble thickener
  • Humectant and skin-conditioning
  • Solubilizer for actives
  • Low irritation profile

Known concerns

  • High-purity grade needed to limit 1,4-dioxane traces
  • Primarily a structural ingredient

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

Related thickeners

76
ACRYLATES CROSSPOLYMER-6
Thickener
 76
ACRYLATES/LAURETH-25 METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER
Thickener
 76
BENZYLIDENE SORBITOL
Thickener
 76
BIS-(DECYLTETRADECETH-150) HEXANEDICARBAMATE
Thickener
 76
BIS-ETHYLHEXYL POLY(CAPROLACTONE/PENTAERYTHRITOL)/IPDI COPOLYMER
Thickener
 76
COCO-GLYCOLAMIDE
Thickener
 76
DIMETHYLDIBENZYLIDENE SORBITOL
Thickener
 76
OCTADECENE/MA COPOLYMER
Thickener

Check your shelf

Find PEG-180 in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains PEG-180 and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.

This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.