Hydrogenated castor oil polyethylene glycol ester is a non-ionic surfactant derived from castor oil, a vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the castor plant (Ricinus communis). This ingredient is obtained through a hydrogenation process, which makes castor oil water-soluble, and its extension to polyethylene glycol esters gives it various applications in cosmetic, pharmaceutical, and industrial formulations.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Polyethylene glycol castor oil hydrogenate is composed of:

• Hydrogenated castor oil: A modified form of castor oil obtained through hydrogenation, which enhances stability and resistance to degradation.

• Polyethylene glycol: A chain of ethylene oxide (EO) molecules that links the castor oil, providing water-solubility and improving emulsifying properties. This combination makes polyethylene glycol castor oil hydrogenate an ingredient primarily used as an emulsifier, surfactant, and solubilizer.

Physical Properties

• Appearance: It appears as a clear, viscous liquid, colorless or slightly yellowish, depending on the concentration of polyethylene glycol and the degree of hydrogenation.

• Odor: It has a nearly neutral odor, sometimes slightly fatty, which does not interfere with the fragrance of other ingredients in formulations.

• Solubility: It is soluble in water and polar solvents such as alcohol and propylene glycol. It is insoluble in non-polar oils but is effective at emulsifying them.

• Stability: The product is stable at room temperature but can be affected by prolonged light and high heat exposure.

Benefits and Functions

• Emulsifier: Polyethylene glycol castor oil hydrogenate is used as an emulsifying agent to stabilize oil and water emulsions in cosmetics and other products.

• Surfactant: It enhances cleansing ability by reducing the surface tension between the product and the skin or other surfaces.

• Solubilizer: It is used to solubilize oils and fragrances that would otherwise not easily mix with water, improving the dispersion of insoluble ingredients.

• Skin conditioning: Due to its moisturizing properties, it is used in skincare and hair care products as an emollient.

Applications

Cosmetics and Personal Care

• Shampoos and conditioners: It is used in hair care products to improve the mixture of water and oils, enhancing texture and foaming properties.

• Lotions and creams: It is a common ingredient in moisturizing lotions and creams, where it helps improve texture and feel.

• Facial and body treatments: It is often used in serums, masks, and treatments to improve skin hydration and texture.

• Deodorants and antiperspirants: Used as an emulsifier in deodorant formulations for better product distribution on the skin.

Pharmaceutical Industry

• Drug vehicles: It is used as a vehicle in certain pharmaceutical formulations, helping solubilize and deliver active ingredients.

• Creams and ointments: Employed in ointments and creams as an emulsifier and skin conditioner.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

• Biodegradability: Polyethylene glycol castor oil hydrogenate is biodegradable, but like all surfactants, it should be disposed of properly to avoid environmental contamination.

• Safety: It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics with a low risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions. However, it is always recommended to perform a patch test before using products containing this ingredient, especially for individuals with very sensitive skin.

• Sustainability: Being derived from castor oil, a renewable plant resource, the product has a relatively low environmental impact compared to other synthetic emulsifiers.