PEG-50 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Succinate
AKA “Polyethylene glycol castor oil succinate, PEG-50 HCO succinate
Essential Oil
Ingredient Facts
Peg-50 hydrogenated castor oil succinate
AKA: Polyethylene glycol castor oil succinate, PEG-50 HCO succinate
Essential Oil · Emulsifying · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Plant Oil
Essential Oil
Not Clean
Castor oil (Ricinus communis), hydrogenated, ethoxylated, butanedioate (50 mol EO average molar ratio) Science: Origin: Botanic/Natural | Process: Catalytic Hydrogenation | Functions: Surfactant - Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
Effective at 20.0%
CAS #
61788-85-0
Form
Oil
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Viscosity Controlling
Emulsifier
Controls Viscosity
Mixes oil and water
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
A modern synthetic surfactant created by combining polyethylene glycol with hydrogenated castor oil and succinic acid. Developed in the latter half of the 20th century to enhance emulsification and stabilization in cosmetic and personal care products.
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
Concentration Guide
0.002%
40.0%
0%56%
Effective Range
CIR reported use: 0.002-0.003 | 1-40
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR