Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters
Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Works as an emollient, emulsifier, and mild cleansing agent | Also used as solubilizing agent for essential oils and fragrance ingredients
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EWG Safety Score
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What Is Olive Oil PEG-7 Esters?
Olive oil PEG-7 esters comes from a process known as transesterification, where pure olive oil is combined with PEG-7, a synthetic humectant and solvent. Transesterification is an eco-friendly chemical conversion where fatty acids such as triglycerides react with alcohol and other esters to form a new compound that is water soluble despite being made from an oil.
In skin care products, olive oil PEG-7 esters works as an emollient, emulsifier, and mild, secondary cleansing agent (”secondary” meaning it assists the primary cleansing agent which precedes it on the ingredient list). This ingredient can also be used as solubilizing agent for essential oils and fragrance ingredients.
Olive oil PEG-7 esters has been deemed safe as used in cosmetics by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Their 2014 assessment looked at maximum use concentration ranges for olive oil PEG-7 esters up to 12% for leave-on products and 97% rinse-off formulations.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Toxicological Research, June 2015, pages 105-136 [URL not found]
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International Journal of Toxicology, 2014, pages 13S-39S [URL not found]
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Toxicology, November 2005, pages 1-38 [URL not found]
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Melilotus Officinalis Extract
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Melissa Officinalis Flower … Stem Extract
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Microencapsulated Retinol
Stabilised retinol for enhanced efficacy and reduced irritation
Parietaria Officinalis Extract
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PCA Dimethicone
Stable siloxane polymer | Created through the combination of dimethicone and pyrrolidone carboxylic acid
PEG
Versatile ingredient used as a cleansing agent, emollient, and emulsifier | Considered safe for skin when used in cosmetic formulations
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