Methoxy PEG-16
AKA “Polyethylene Glycol Methyl Ether”
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Methoxy peg-16
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol Methyl Ether
Synthetic · Humectant · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Humectant
Emulsifier
Solvent
Skin Conditioner
Synthetic
Clean
A moisture-binding ingredient that helps products absorb smoothly into skin while keeping it hydrated. It also helps dissolve other ingredients evenly throughout formulas.
CAS #
9004-74-4
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Humectant
A moisture magnet. Pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers up to the surface to keep skin plump and hydrated.
Solvent
Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.
Humectant
A moisture magnet. Pulls water from the air and deeper skin layers up to the surface to keep skin plump and hydrated.
Emulsifier
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A synthetic polyethylene glycol derivative developed in the 20th century. Used in modern cosmetics as a solvent and humectant to improve product stability and water retention in formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR