PEG-400
AKA “Polyethylene glycol 400, macrogol 400, carbowax 400
Synthetic
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Ingredient Facts
PEG-400
AKA: Polyethylene glycol 400, Macrogol 400, Carbowax 400
Synthetic · Binding | Emulsion Stabilising | Solvent · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived
Emulsifier
Solvent
Synthetic
Not Clean
A gentle humectant and stabilizer that helps blend ingredients together and keeps the formula smooth and consistent on skin.
CAS #
25322-68-3
Form
Liquid
Plant-Derived
Synthetic. PEG-400 is derived from ethylene oxide, a petrochemical compound belonging to the polyethylene glycol family. It is synthesized through the polymerization of ethylene oxide monomers under catalytic conditions.
Function
Binding | Emulsion Stabilising | Solvent
Benefits
Binding
Emulsion Stabilising
Solvent
Moisturizing
Strengthens Barrier
Anti-Aging
Holds ingredients together
Keeps product blended
Dissolves other ingredients
Traditional Use
A synthetic polyethylene glycol polymer developed in the 1940s-1950s for industrial and pharmaceutical applications. Adopted by cosmetics as a humectant and solvent to improve product texture and hydration.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
Target
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy Safe
Yes
EWG Score4
CIR Safety Findings
medical-approval, all-shades-safe, Not a Sensitizer
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
CANADApermitted
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR
PEG-400 — Duck Heart Ghost