PEG-5 Lanolin
AKA “Polyethylene Glycol Lanolin, PEG-5 Wool Wax”
Surfactant
Ingredient Facts
Peg-5 lanolin
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol Lanolin, PEG-5 Wool Wax
Surfactant · Emulsifying · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Barrier Lipid
Not Clean
Lanolin, ethoxylated (5 mol EO average molar ratio)
Effective at 2.6%
CAS #
61790-81-6
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Emulsifier
Fights Bacteria
Locks In Moisture
Wound Healing
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Lanolin itself has been used for centuries as a traditional emollient derived from sheep's wool. The PEG-5 version was developed in the 20th century to improve water solubility and create lighter formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Allergen Warning
⚠️ Lanolin (Wool)
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not an Irritant
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
0.2%
5.0%
0%7%
Effective Range
CIR reported use: 2-4 | 1-5 | 0.2-0.3
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR