Laneth-20
AKA “PEG-20 Lanolin, Polyethylene glycol 20 lanolin ether
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Laneth-20
AKA: PEG-20 Lanolin, Polyethylene glycol 20 lanolin ether
Synthetic · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Barrier Lipid
Synthetic
Clean
A gentle cleansing agent derived from lanolin that helps remove dirt and oil while keeping formulas smooth and well-blended.
Effective at 5.04%
CAS #
61791-20-6
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Viscosity Controlling
Removes Impurities
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Controls Viscosity
Traditional Use
A widely-used synthetic surfactant derived from lanolin, created in the mid-20th century for cosmetic emulsification. The number indicates 20 ethylene oxide units, providing optimal balance between hydrophilic and lipophilic properties.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Lanolin (Wool)
EWG
4
CIR
Safe w/Qualifications
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not an Irritant
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
0.08%
10.0%
0%14%
Effective Range
CIR reported use: 3-8 | 0.3-4 | 0.1-10 | 0.08-2
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR