PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
AKA “Polyethylene Glycol 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-40 HCO, Cremophor RH 40”
Essential Oil
Ingredient Facts
Peg-40 hydrogenated castor oil
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-40 HCO, Cremophor RH 40
Essential Oil · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Essential Oil
Clean
Derived from castor seeds, this natural cleanser helps remove impurities and keeps formulas blended smoothly for a lightweight feel.
CAS #
61788-85-0
Form
Oil
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.
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Cleansing Surfactant
Emulsifier
Antioxidant Protection
Wound Healing
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Synthetic derivative of castor oil (historically used in traditional medicine and beauty practices) combined with polyethylene glycol, developed mid-20th century. Created as a solubilizer and conditioning agent for cosmetics.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe w/Qualifications
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
European Commission
EU Cosmetic Ingredient Database (CosIng)
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Isostearate
European Commission
EU Cosmetic Ingredient Database (CosIng)
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Laurate
European Commission
EU Cosmetic Ingredient Database (CosIng)
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil PCA Isostearate
European Commission
EU Cosmetic Ingredient Database (CosIng)
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Triisostearate
European Commission
EU Cosmetic Ingredient Database (CosIng)
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Environmental Working Group (EWG)
EWG Skin Deep Cosmetics Database
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR