Methoxy PEG-16
AKA “Polyethylene Glycol Methyl Ether”
Humectant
Ingredient Facts
Methoxy peg-16
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol Methyl Ether
Humectant · Humectant · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Humectant
Solvent
Not Clean
Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), .alpha.-hydro-.omega.-methoxy- (16 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
9004-74-4
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Humectant
A moisture magnet. Pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers up to the surface to keep skin plump and hydrated.
Solvent
Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic polyethylene glycol derivative developed in the 20th century. Used in modern cosmetics as a solvent and humectant to improve product stability and water retention in formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR