PEG-90M is a water-soluble ingredient that acts as a great solvent in the formulations that it is used in. It basically stands for polyethylene glycol, which means an ethylene glycol polymer. The M refers to 10,000 units of ethylene glycol monomer according to the standard nomenclature. Therefore, PEG-90M consists of 90,000 units of ethylene glycol monomers that are attached to the chain. It is a very effective ingredient and is quite compatible with the others used in a product. The chemical formula of PEG-90M is H(OCH2CH2)nOH.
Products with PEG-90M
With samples available
Polyox™ WSR 301
by IFF
RITA PEO 18
by RITA Corporation
Polímero W-25
by AQIA
What is PEG-90M used for?
PEG-90M fulfills multiple functions when added to cosmetic, skin care, and hair care products. It is thus used in a variety of products such as shampoos, lotions, and other cosmetic formulations.
- Hair care: It helps rebuild the thickness of the shafts and also improves the texture. It aids in reducing frizz by providing intense hydration and moisture to the hair. It leaves the hair shinier and overall healthier
- Skin care: It controls the viscosity of formulations, improving the texture and spreadability. It also keeps the surface of the skin hydrated by locking the moisture on the top most layer of the skin
- Cosmetic products: It helps improve the texture of the products and gives them a smooth silky appearance. It works well with almost all the other ingredients in a formulation and binds them
Origin
A polymer of ethylene oxide, PEG-90M is derived by reacting ethylene oxide with water. It can be catalyzed using basic or acidic catalysts. Peg is the short form for polyethylene glycol and M refers to 10,000 units of ethylene glycol. It has 90,000 units of ethylene glycol attached to the chain.
What does PEG-90M do in a formulation?
SOLVENT|
VISCOSITY CONTROLLING|
SKIN CONDITIONING|
HAIR CONDITIONING|
HUMECTANTSafety Profile
Polyethylene glycols are generally recognized as safe when used in lower concentrations. The process of making PEG-90M can however be toxic as it releases harmful byproducts. A patch test should be done prior to full usage as it may cause allergies on highly sensitive skin. Further, PEG-90M is generally vegan unless it is derived from animal sources.
PEG-90M technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Melting Point | 65°C |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |