PEG-4 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides
AKA “Polyethylene Glycol Caprylic Capric Glycerides, PEG-4 Medium Chain Triglycerides
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Peg-4 caprylic/capric glycerides
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol Caprylic Capric Glycerides, PEG-4 Medium Chain Triglycerides
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Emollient
Cleanser
Emulsifier
Skin Conditioner
Plant Oil
Synthetic
Clean
Mono-, di- and triglycerides, C8-C10, ethoxylated (4 mol EO average molar ratio) Science: Process: Ethoxylation | Functions: Surfactant - Emulsifying Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Emulsifying
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Emulsifier
Locks In Moisture
Wound Healing
Antioxidant Protection
Mixes Oil & Water
Traditional Use
Modern synthetic emulsifier combining polyethylene glycol with medium-chain fatty acid glycerides, developed for lightweight, fast-absorbing cosmetic formulations.
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
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR