PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate

PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate is a nonionic surfactant/emollient used in cleansers and leave-on products (commonly ~0.5–5%) to solubilize oils and improve mildness. Compared with harsher anionic surfactants it is generally well-tolerated and often included to reduce overall formula irritation, but as a surfactant/solubilizer it can still contribute to barrier disruption or stinging in highly reactive or eczematous skin, especially in rinse-off systems and when layered with other irritants. Overall, its clinical irritation potential is low but not inert, supporting a “gentle” score. Safety Notes: PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate is most often used as a refatting solubilizing surfactant/emollient in cleansing systems and light emulsions; in commercial products it appears at very low levels (~0.1–0.5%) for mildness/solubilization in toners, micellar waters, and low-foam cleansers. Mainstream rinse-off shampoos/body washes and facial cleansers commonly use ~1–5%, while consumer-available high-mildness/high-refat cleansing oils, shower oils, and sulfate-free wash bases can push it into the ~10–20% range to provide slip and reduce stripping without being prescription/professional-only. Leave-on products typically stay lower (often ≤2–3%) due to sensory and potential for tack/eye sting, whereas the highest levels are predominantly seen in rinse-off cleansing formats.

Suitability