Why the PEG 400 used in cosmetic and personal care products ?

POLYETHYLENE GLYCOLS ARE POLYMERS OF ETHYLENE GLYCOL

PEG 200,PEG 220,PEG 240,PEG 350,PEG 400,PEG 450,PEG 500,PEG 800,these are polymer of ethylene glycol.

The number in the name is mean that average molecular weight of compound .

For example ,the PEG 400 also called PEG -8,the 8 is based on the number of units of ethylene glycol. 

The polyethylene glycol polymer have widly used in bath product ,shaving product,skin care product,make up ,skin cleansing products,shampoo,hair conditioners and deodorants.

The different species material have different function :

Anticaking agent                    - PEG800

Plasticizer                         - PEG 800

Viscosity increasing agent -aqueous - PEG 800

Emulsion stabilizer                 -PEG 350,PEG 400,PEG 450,PEG 500

Solvent                             - PEG 200,PEG 220,PEG 240,PEG 350,PEG 400,PEG 450,PEG 500

Humectant                           - PEG 200,PEG 220,PEG 240,PEG 800

Binder                              - PEG 200,PEG 220,PEG 240,PEG 350,PEG 400,PEG 450,PEG 500,PEG 800

Viscosity decreasing agent          - Triethylene Glycol

According to PEG400 property ,is usally used in cosmetic and personal care products.