PEG-75
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: PEG-75 lanolin oil, PEG-75 stearate, PEG-75 shea butter glycerides, PEG-75 propylene glycol stearate
Functions as a humectant to boost skin’s hydration | May also be used as a solvent to mesh ingredients cohesively and enhance formulary texture
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is PEG-75?
PEG-75 is a type of polyethylene glycol. PEGs are amazingly versatile skin care ingredients in skin care because of their many uses and broad compatibility with different types of ingredients. PEG-75 can be used as a humectant (water-binding agent) to boost skin’s hydration. It can also be used as a solvent that improves the overall texture of a formula by making the ingredients mesh more cohesively.
With any PEG ingredient followed by a number, the higher the number, the higher molecular weight of the ingredient. Thus, PEG-75 will feel more substantial on skin than, say, PEG-14.
PEG-75 has many derivatives, including PEG-75 lanolin oil, PEG-75 stearate, PEG-75 shea butter glycerides, and PEG-75 propylene glycol stearate. Each offers its own distinct functions and properties.
PEG-75 has been deemed a safe cosmetic ingredient by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Their report looked at concentrations between 0.2-36%.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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CosmeticsInfo.org, Accessed September 2021, ePublication [https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/polyethylene-glycol-peg-75]
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Toxicology, November 2005, pages 1-38 [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tox.2005.06.001]
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Journal of The American College of Toxicology, 1993, pages 429-457 [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.3109/10915819309141598]
From the Clinic
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These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. PEG-75 is the common form.
6 more not shown.
Related Ingredients
PEG-4
Type of polyethylene glycol | Used as a humectant and solvent in cosmetics
PEG-14
Functions as a humectant to increase skin’s hydration | May also be used as a solvent to mesh ingredients cohesively
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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