PEG-5 Isononanoate
AKA “Polyethylene Glycol Isononanoate, PEG-5 Branched Nonanoic Acid Ester
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Peg-5 isononanoate
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol Isononanoate, PEG-5 Branched Nonanoic Acid Ester
Surfactant · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Not Clean
PEG-5 Isononanoate is a cosmetic ingredient used as surfactant - cleansing, surfactant - emulsifying. Assessed as safe by the CIR.
CAS #
-
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
Fights Bacteria
Locks In Moisture
Wound Healing
Removes Impurities
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A modern synthetic ester developed for cosmetics as a light emollient and solubilizer. Created in the 20th century to provide slip and spreadability in contemporary skincare and color cosmetics.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR