PEG-75 Lanolin

INCI: PEG-75 Lanolin
Type: Water-soluble or dispersible lanolin derivative
Function: Humectant, emollient, solubilizer, conditioner

PEG-75 lanolin is lanolin that has been ethoxylated to create a highly water-dispersible and partially water-soluble ingredient. It offers the conditioning benefits of lanolin without the greasiness.
It is extremely useful in water-based systems, unlike regular lanolin which is sticky and oil-dependent.

Key Benefits in Cosmetics

1. Powerful Humectant
   Attracts moisture
   Keeps skin and hair hydrated
   Prevents transepidermal water loss

2. Conditioning and Softening
   Leaves skin soft and supple
   Makes hair smooth, glossy, and easier to comb
   Excellent for leave-ins and conditioners

3. Emulsifier Booster
   Helps stabilize oil-in-water emulsions
   Improves formula texture and spreadability

4. Mild Cleansing Agent
   Works as a solubilizer in cleansers, shower gels, shampoos, and makeup removers

5. Non-Greasy Lanolin Alternative
   Delivers nourishing effects similar to lanolin
   Without heaviness or stickiness
   Suitable for oily or combination skin formulations

Cosmetic Applications

Skin Care
Moisturizers
Serums
Lotions
Hand and foot creams
Barrier creams
Baby care products

Hair Care
Leave-in conditioners
Deep conditioners
Hair masks
Scalp hydration tonics
Detanglers

Cleansers
Face cleansers
Micellar waters
Cream cleansers
Shower gels

Usage Rate

Humectant or softening agent: 1–5%
Emulsion booster: 2–6%
Hair conditioning: 3–10%
Heavy moisturization: 5–15%

Solubility and Processing

Water-dispersible and can be mixed directly into the water phase
Can also be added during the cool-down phase
Heat stable up to 80°C
pH stable between 5 and 9

Formulation Tips

1. Boosts slip and spreadability, helpful if your product feels thick or draggy

2. Enhances film-forming, adding a soft protective layer in lip care, hand creams, and conditioning sprays

3. Prevents dryness in cleansers by adding 2–5% to compensate for harsh surfactants

4. Compatible with carbomers, surfactants, oils, alcohols, hydrosols, botanical extracts, and silicones

Safety Notes
Generally non-irritating
Patch test recommended for lanolin-sensitive users
Safe for rinse-off and leave-on products