What is Peg-6 Undecylenate?
Peg-6 Undecylenate, also known as 10-Undecenoic acid, ethoxylated (6 mol EO average molar ratio), is a synthetic ingredient derived from undecylenic acid, a fatty acid that originates from castor oil. It is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) ether of undecylenic acid, which means it has been ethoxylated, a process that involves treating it with ethylene oxide to create a new compound. This process is what gives it the ‘6’ in its name, indicating the average number of ethylene oxide units in the molecule.
The use of Peg-6 Undecylenate in cosmetics can be traced back to the need for effective cleansing and anti-seborrheic agents. Its unique chemical structure allows it to reduce the surface tension of oils and dirt on the skin, making it easier to remove them. This property has made it a popular choice in the formulation of various cosmetic products.
While it shares some similarities with other PEG compounds used in cosmetics, such as PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate and PEG-8 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Peg-6 Undecylenate stands out due to its specific anti-seborrheic properties. This means it is particularly effective in products designed to control sebum production, such as those for oily or acne-prone skin.
Typically, you will find Peg-6 Undecylenate in a variety of cosmetic products including facial cleansers, body washes, shampoos, and acne treatments. Its versatile nature and effective cleansing properties make it a valuable ingredient in the world of cosmetics.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Peg-6 Undecylenate:
Anti-Seborrheic
Peg-6 Undecylenate is officially recognized as an anti-seborrheic ingredient. In layman’s terms, this means it helps to control and reduce the production of sebum, the oily substance produced by our skin. Overproduction of sebum can lead to oily skin, clogged pores, and acne. By regulating sebum production, Peg-6 Undecylenate can help to maintain a balanced and healthy skin condition, reducing the likelihood of skin issues related to excessive oiliness.
Cleansing
Another official function of Peg-6 Undecylenate is its cleansing properties. This ingredient works to effectively remove dirt, oil, and other impurities from the skin’s surface. This cleansing action not only helps to keep the skin clean but also aids in preventing the buildup of impurities that can lead to skin problems such as acne and blackheads. The cleansing action of Peg-6 Undecylenate makes it a valuable ingredient in products like facial cleansers, body washes, and shampoos.
It’s important to note that the benefits listed above are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Peg-6 Undecylenate. There may be other benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and therefore, are not discussed in this article.
Safety Profile
Peg-6 Undecylenate is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, individual reactions can vary and it is always recommended to patch test a new product before widespread use.
As for its allergenic potential, Peg-6 Undecylenate is not typically associated with causing allergic reactions. However, individuals with sensitive skin or known allergies to other cosmetic ingredients should use caution.
Potential side effects of topical application of Peg-6 Undecylenate may include:
- Minor skin irritation
- Redness
- Dryness
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – there is currently limited data on the safety of topical usage of Peg-6 Undecylenate during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Peg-6 Undecylenate are not common, but as with any cosmetic ingredient, individual reactions can vary. It is always recommended to patch test a new product before widespread use.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator, using a TiS-appointed industry consultant. The sources for this analysis include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other various publicly available sources.
