PEG-2 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
AKA “PEG-2 hydrogenated ricinus communis oil”
Essential Oil
Ingredient Facts
Peg-2 hydrogenated castor oil
AKA: PEG-2 hydrogenated ricinus communis oil
Essential Oil · Cleansing · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Essential Oil
Clean
Derived from castor seeds, this natural emulsifier helps blend water and oil ingredients together, creating a smooth, unified texture in formulas.
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.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emulsifier
Reduces Inflammation
Wound Healing
Fights Bacteria
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
A synthetic derivative combining polyethylene glycol with hydrogenated castor oil, developed in the mid-20th century. Created to stabilize and improve the spreadability of castor oil in cosmetic 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