Skip to content

Thickener

PEG-180M

CAS 25322-68-3
75

Safety score · 0–100

Fine

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

A high-molecular-weight PEG used to thicken cleansers and shampoos. CIR-reviewed safe; the only caveat is the generic PEG-class trace dioxane risk if not properly purified.

Function

BINDINGEMULSION STABILISINGVISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Skin benefits

  • High molecular weight thickener
  • Improves slip and rinse-off feel
  • Stabilises emulsions
  • Compatible with anionic surfactants

Known concerns

  • PEG class — possible 1,4-dioxane impurity if not purified
  • Not readily biodegradable

References

EU

EU CosIng database

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

Related thickeners

75
ACRYLATES/BEHENETH-25 METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER
Thickener
 75
ACRYLIC ACID/ACRYLAMIDOMETHYL PROPANE SULFONIC ACID COPOLYMER
Thickener
 75
BIS-HEMA PPG-26/IPDI COPOLYMER
Thickener
 75
BUTOXYHYDROXYPROPYL CETYL HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE
Thickener
 75
DEXTRIN/XANTHAN GUM/PISTACIA LENTISCUS GUM EXTRACT
Thickener
 75
DIBENZYLIDENE SORBITOL
Thickener
 75
DIMETHYLACRYLAMIDE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE CROSSPOLYMER
Thickener
 75
ETHYLENE/MALEIC ANHYDRIDE/PROPYLENE COPOLYMER
Thickener

Check your shelf

Find PEG-180M in your products.

Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains PEG-180M 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.