Why are PEG substances used in cosmetic products?
In cosmetic formulations, PEG (polyethylene glycols) and specifically their derivatives, ethoxilized alcohols, are frequently used as surface-active agents. They act as solvents, emulsifiers, tensides and re-fattening agents in skin care as well as in cleansing products. Their disadvantage is that they are not physiological which means that they are not bio degradeable in the skin and, depending on their structure they consequently lead to a more or less intense washing out effect of the natural protective substances of the skin during skin cleansing. A further disadvantage is that they are quite sensitive to the joint attack of atmospheric oxygen and UV radiation. During this process highly reactive peroxides are formed which can trigger acne in sensitive individuals. In order to prevent this effect, antioxidants are added to the formulations.
