Introduction

Polyethylene glycol (PEG), a chemical substance widely used in cosmetics, has a molecular weight ranging from several hundred to hundreds of thousands. Different molecular weights of PEG possess distinct physicochemical properties, thus exerting varying effects in cosmetics and bringing diverse impacts on the performance and user experience of cosmetic products.

Low Molecular Weight Polyethylene Glycol (PEG-200 - PEG-600)

• Moisturizing Performance: Low molecular weight polyethylene glycols have good moisturizing properties. They can absorb and retain moisture on the skin surface, helping to keep the skin hydrated. For example, PEG-200 can be added to cosmetics as a moisturizer to make the skin softer and smoother.
• Solubility and Permeability: These low molecular weight polyethylene glycols have excellent water solubility. They can dissolve quickly and disperse evenly in cosmetic formulations. Meanwhile, they also relatively easily penetrate into the stratum corneum of the skin, facilitating better absorption of other active ingredients in cosmetics by the skin, thereby enhancing the efficacy of the products. For instance, PEG-400 is often used as a solvent and carrier to help dissolve some water-insoluble ingredients and promote their penetration into the skin.
• Freshness and User Experience: Due to their low molecular weight, they leave relatively little residue on the skin. After use, the skin feels relatively fresh without giving a greasy or heavy burden, endowing cosmetics with good spreadability and ease of application.

Medium Molecular Weight Polyethylene Glycol (PEG-1000 - PEG-2000)

• Thickening and Stabilizing Effects: Medium molecular weight polyethylene glycols begin to exhibit certain thickening effects. They can increase the viscosity of cosmetics, making their texture more stable. In emulsion, cream, and other forms of cosmetic products, adding an appropriate amount of medium molecular weight polyethylene glycol can prevent the products from layering or precipitating, improving their stability and shelf life.
• Moisturizing and Nourishing Degree: Compared with low molecular weight polyethylene glycols, medium molecular weight ones have more long-lasting moisturizing performance. They can form a relatively uniform moisturizing film on the skin surface, reducing water evaporation and providing long-term moisturizing effects for the skin.
• Smoothness Effect: During use, medium molecular weight polyethylene glycols impart a smooth touch to the skin, improving the texture of the skin and making it feel more delicate. They also enhance application performance and comfort.

High Molecular Weight Polyethylene Glycol (PEG-4000 and Above)

• High Viscosity and Film-Forming Properties: High molecular weight polyethylene glycols have high viscosity and can form a tough and elastic film covering the skin surface. This film locks moisture inside the skin, preventing water loss, while acting as a barrier against external pollutants and irritants.
• Adjusting Texture and Touch: In cosmetics, high molecular weight polyethylene glycols significantly change the texture of the product, making it thicker and richer. For example, in paste or waxy cosmetic products, they increase the hardness and formability of the product.
• Sustained Release Effect: High molecular weight polyethylene glycols serve as a sustained-release carrier for some active ingredients, slowly releasing them to the skin surface and prolonging their action time.

Synergistic Effects of Different Molecular Weights of Polyethylene Glycol

In actual cosmetic formulations, different molecular weights of polyethylene glycol are often combined based on product requirements and application purposes. Through such synergistic effects, the advantages of each molecular weight of polyethylene glycol are fully utilized to create more effective and consumer-friendly cosmetic products.

Conclusion

Different molecular weights of polyethylene glycol play unique roles in cosmetics, providing strong support for moisturizing, thickening, penetration, and film-forming protection. Understanding these differences helps develop high-quality products that meet diverse consumer needs.

Recommend products: Polyethylene Glycol PEG Multiple grades

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