PEG-4
PEG-4 (polyethylene glycol)
- Role
- A liquid polyethylene glycol that holds moisture in the product and acts as a solvent.
- Catalog formulas
- 3
- Type
- Base
- Verified
- 09.11.2026
What does this ingredient do in an antiperspirant?
A polyethylene glycol with 4 ethylene oxide units on average; polyethylene glycols with a molar mass of up to 600 g/mol are liquids. INCI functions: humectant (retains moisture in the product) and solvent; COSMILE also lists it as a functional fragrance excipient.
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 Dilaurate and PEG-4 Laurate, where it helps dissolve ingredients and keep the base moist. It does not reduce sweating.
The CIR concluded that PEG-4 is safe in the present practices of use (final report of 2010); the CIR summary table lists use concentrations of 0.01–67%.
The CIR notes that low-molecular-weight polyethylene glycols are readily absorbed through damaged skin, and cases of contact dermatitis and systemic toxicity in burn patients were attributed to a PEG-based ointment. PEGs did not irritate the skin of rabbits and guinea pigs; an individual reaction to the finished product is possible.
Not the same as PEG-4 Dilaurate or PEG-4 Laurate, which are esters of PEG-4 with lauric acid and separate INCI names. Nor is it PEG-40: the number gives the average count of ethylene oxide units.
Products containing PEG-4
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 Supports: INCI functions, substance identity
- COSMILE Europe (Cosmetics Europe): PEG-4 Supports: INCI functions, substance description
- CIR: Quick Reference Table (summary of conclusions, 2014) Supports: safety conclusion, use concentrations
- CIR: Safety Assessment of PEG Diesters as Used in Cosmetics (2015) Supports: skin absorption, irritation and sensitisation