PEG-20 Cocamide MEA
AKA “PEG 20 cocamide MEA, Polyethylene glycol 20 cocamide monoethanolamine
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Peg-20 cocamide mea
AKA: PEG 20 cocamide MEA, Polyethylene glycol 20 cocamide monoethanolamine
Surfactant · Emulsifying · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Not Clean
Amides, coco alkyl, N-(hydroxyethyl), ethoxylated (20 mol EO average molar ratio)
CAS #
68425-44-5
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Surfactant Emulsifying
Moisturizing
Strengthens Barrier
Mixes oil and water
Traditional Use
Synthetic surfactant developed in the mid-20th century from coconut oil amides and polyethylene glycol. Engineered to improve foam stability and cleaning properties in cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Caution
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Caution
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
Dermal absorption: 100%. Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 772).
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR