PEG-4 Dilaurate
PEG-4 dilaurate
- Role
- An emulsifier that helps combine the oily and watery parts of a formula.
- Catalog formulas
- 3
- Type
- Texture
- Verified
- 09.11.2026
What does this ingredient do in an antiperspirant?
A diester of polyethylene glycol (4 ethylene oxide units on average) and lauric acid. INCI function: emulsifying surfactant.
Part of a system, not a label in isolation
In the catalogue it appears in roll-ons and a cream deodorant together with PEG-4 and PEG-4 Laurate, where it helps stabilise the emulsion. It does not reduce sweating.
In 2015 the CIR found PEG diesters, including PEG-4 Dilaurate, safe in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating; the earlier 25% limit from the 2000 report was lifted. According to the review, PEG-4 Dilaurate is used at concentrations of up to 12%.
The CIR cautioned that PEG diesters can enhance the skin penetration of other substances, which formulators take into account. Tolerance is determined by the finished product.
Not the same as PEG-4 Laurate: the dilaurate carries two lauric acid residues on the PEG, the laurate only one.
Products containing PEG-4 Dilaurate
Links are based on the complete published INCI list for the exact product version.
Sources
The conclusions apply to the stated conditions and jurisdictions, not automatically to every concentration or product.
- EU CosIng: PEG-4 Dilaurate Supports: INCI functions, substance identity
- COSMILE Europe (Cosmetics Europe): PEG-4 Dilaurate Supports: substance description
- CIR: Safety Assessment of PEG Diesters as Used in Cosmetics (2015) Supports: safety assessment, use concentrations, non-irritating formulation condition, penetration caution