PEG-500
AKA “Polyethylene Glycol 500, Macrogol 500”
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
PEG-500
AKA: Polyethylene Glycol 500, Macrogol 500
Synthetic · Emulsion Stabilising · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Emulsifier
Solvent
Synthetic
Not Clean
A gentle conditioning agent that helps blend ingredients together and keeps the formula stable and smooth on skin.
CAS #
25322-68-3
Form
Liquid
See origin →
Functions
Binding
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Solvent
Dissolves other ingredients so they distribute evenly in the formula. Often the invisible "base" everything else is mixed into.
Holds Formula Together
Stabilizes Emulsion
Dissolves Ingredients
Holds ingredients together
Keeps product blended
Dissolves other ingredients
Traditional Use
Polyethylene glycol with a molecular weight of approximately 500 was developed in the early 20th century. It became widely used in cosmetics from the 1950s onward as a humectant, solvent, and carrier for active ingredients.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR