PEG-14
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: PEG-14M, PEG-14 Dimethicone, PEG-14 Oleate, PEG-14 Stearate
Functions as a humectant to increase skin’s hydration | May also be used as a solvent to mesh ingredients cohesively
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is PEG-14?
PEG-14 is a synthetic ingredient that functions as a humectant and solvent in skin care formulations. In other words, it can help boost skin’s hydration while also making a formula’s ingredients mesh more cohesively while improving the texture.
PEG stands for polyethylene glycol. With any PEG ingredient followed by a number, the lower the number, the lighter the ingredient. Thus, PEG-14 will feel much lighter on skin than, say, PEG-200.
PEG-14 has many derivatives such as PEG-14M, PEG-14 Dimethicone, PEG-14 Oleate, and PEG-14 Stearate. Each offers its own unique properties.
In 2010, PEG-14 was deemed safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed August 2021, ePublication []
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Toxicological Research, June 2015, pages 105–136 []
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The Cosmetic Ingredient Review, June 2010, pages 1-49 []
From the Clinic
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PEG-14 is a variant of PEG-75, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
Functions as a humectant to boost skin’s hydration | May also be used as a solvent to mesh ingredients cohesively and enhance formulary texture
Related Ingredients
PEG-75
Functions as a humectant to boost skin’s hydration | May also be used as a solvent to mesh ingredients cohesively and enhance formulary texture
PEG-4
Type of polyethylene glycol | Used as a humectant and solvent in cosmetics
PEG-6
A lightweight humectant and solvent that helps formulations absorb and deliver other actives
PEG-20
A versatile polymer that helps formulations blend and retain moisture
PEG-7m
A synthetic polymer that stabilises formulations and controls texture
PEG-60
A synthetic humectant and solvent that draws moisture into the skin and aids product formulation
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