PEG-4 Laurate
PEG-4 laurate
- Role
- An emulsifier that helps blend oily ingredients with water.
- Catalog formulas
- 3
- Type
- Texture
- Verified
- 09.11.2026
What does this ingredient do in an antiperspirant?
A monoester of polyethylene glycol (4 ethylene oxide units on average) and lauric acid. INCI functions: emulsifying and cleansing 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 Dilaurate as part of the emulsifier system. It does not reduce sweating.
In 2000 the CIR found PEG laurates and PEG dilaurates safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations of up to 25%; data submitted to the FDA in 1984 showed use at concentrations of up to 25%.
It is used as an emulsifier; an individual reaction to the finished product is possible.
Not the same as PEG-4 Dilaurate: the laurate carries one lauric acid residue on the PEG, the dilaurate two. Nor is it a Laureth: laureths are PEG ethers of lauryl alcohol, not esters of the acid.
Products containing PEG-4 Laurate
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 Laurate Supports: INCI functions, substance identity
- COSMILE Europe (Cosmetics Europe): PEG-4 Laurate Supports: substance description
- CIR: Safety Assessment of PEG Diesters as Used in Cosmetics (2015) Supports: safety assessment, use concentrations