





PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Sold by weight (g or Kg) for formulation accuracy. Reference only: 250 g ≈ 245–250 mL (at 20°C).

Choose options






Quick specs
Solubilises oils & fragrance
Use in mists & washes
Clear system support
INGREDIENT OVERVIEW
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil is a solubiliser used in cosmetic formulations to disperse oils and fragrance into water-based systems. It is widely used in toners, mists, cleansers, and serums where clarity and improved sensory are required.
Our PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil is supplied as a cosmetic-grade liquid with high active content (92.12%) and controlled acid and hydroxyl values, supporting consistent formulation performance.
In formulation, it provides effective solubilisation with a smoother sensory profile compared to traditional polysorbates.
QUALITY & SOURCING
- High active substance content (92.12%) for performance
- Low acid value (1.2 mg KOH/g) for stability
- Controlled hydroxyl value (72.5 mg KOH/g)
- Balanced saponification value (93.0 mg KOH/g)
- Stable pH range (6.2) for formulation compatibility
- USP standard compliant
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
- Ingredient: PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
- INCI: PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
- CAS: 61788-85-0
- Solubility: Water soluble
- Typical use level:
- Solubilisation: 1–5%
- Depends on oil/fragrance load
- Starter: 1–3% for most cosmetic formulations
FORMULATION NOTES
Processing notes
Pre-mix with oil phase or add directly to water phase with mixing.
Compatibility notes
- Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients
- Works well in surfactant systems
- Suitable for mild formulations
pH notes
Stable across typical cosmetic pH ranges (approx. pH 5–7.5)
Formulation examples
Toner / mist
- PEG-40 HCO: 1–2%
- Fragrance: 0.1–0.5%
- Water phase to 100%
Cleanser
- PEG-40 HCO: 1–3%
- Surfactant system
- Humectants
Troubleshooting
- Cloudiness → adjust ratio vs oil
- Separation → insufficient solubiliser
- Too heavy feel → reduce level
- Foam suppression → adjust surfactants
COMPARISON & ALTERNATIVES
- Polysorbate 20 → lighter, more basic
- Polysorbate 80 → heavier, higher oil load
- Full emulsifier → glyceryl stearate citrate
SENSORY PROFILE
PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil provides a smoother, more refined sensory profile compared to polysorbates. It helps reduce heaviness and improves overall formulation feel. Sensory outcome is
formulation-dependent; bench testing is recommended.
STORAGE & HANDLING
- Store in a cool, dry place, protected from heat, moisture, and direct light.
- Keep container tightly sealed when not in use.
- Shelf life: 2 years when properly stored
PRODUCT SAFETY
- Low irritation potential when used within recommended levels.
- Suitable for leave-on and rinse-off systems.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Avoid inhalation of dust. Use appropriate PPE during handling and formulation.
- Refer to Safety Data Sheet (SDS) contained within documents tab.
DOCUMENTATION
- Cosmetic grade
- Active content: 92.12%
- Acid value: 1.2 mg KOH/g
- Hydroxyl value: 72.5 mg KOH/g
- Saponification value: 93.0 mg KOH/g
- pH: 6.2
- COA and SDS available
Often paired with this ingredient
Explore a curated edit of key ingredients.
Learn more
Formulate with Confidence
Practical ingredient education and formulation guidance to help you choose, use and combine cosmetic ingredients with clarity.
Read All ArticlesJoin the JNA Community
Get practical formulation tips, launches & ingredient updates.






