PEG-40 Methyl Ether
AKA “Polyethylene Glycol 40 Methyl Ether, Methoxypolyethylene Glycol 40
Ingredient
Ingredient Facts
Peg-40 methyl ether
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol 40 Methyl Ether, Methoxypolyethylene Glycol 40
Ingredient · Solvent · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Solvent
Not Clean
PEG-40 Methyl Ether is the polyethylene glycol ether of Methyl Alcohol.
CAS #
9004-74-4
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Solvent
Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.
Dissolves Ingredients
Antioxidant Protection
Wound Healing
Dissolves other ingredients
Traditional Use
A synthetic polymer developed in the mid-20th century as a water-soluble emulsifier and humectant. Created specifically for cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations to improve texture and hydration.
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 Status
USApermitted
CANADApermitted
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR