PEG 6000 Flake
Polyethylene Glycol 6000
PEG 6000 flake refers to polyethylene glycol with an average molecular weight of 6000, supplied in solid flake form. It is a non-ionic, water-soluble polymer commonly used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial formulations.
PEG 6000 (flake form) is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products for its functions as a binder, thickener, solubilizer, humectant, emollient, and delivery aid. Its high molecular weight gives it a waxy consistency, low skin penetration, and excellent compatibility with water and many oils/surfactants.
Chemical Profile:
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Full name: Polyethylene glycol 6000
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CAS number: 25322-68-3
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Molecular weight: ~6000 g/mol
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Appearance: White, waxy flakes
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Solubility: Readily soluble in water, some organic solvents
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Melting point: ~55–63 °C
Key Properties
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Hydrophilic and non-toxic
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Acts as a binder, thickener, lubricant, plasticizer, solubilizer, and humectant
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Compatible with many other ingredients (oils, actives, surfactants)
Common Uses:
1. Pharmaceuticals
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Tablet binder or coating agent
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Base for suppositories or ointments
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Improves solubility of poorly soluble drugs
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Used in controlled-release drug delivery systems
2. Cosmetics & Personal Care
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Creams and lotions: acts as a moisturizing base, thickener, and stabilizer
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Toothpastes: helps prevent drying, stabilizes texture
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Shampoos & conditioners: adds smoothness and enhances viscosity
3. Industrial Applications
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Used in plastic processing, ceramics, and detergents
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Release agent for molds and extrusion
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Lubricant or antistatic agent in textile finishing
Typical Usage Levels
| Application | Usage Range |
|---|---|
| Tablets / capsules | 1–5% |
| Creams / ointments | 2–10% |
| Industrial lubricants | Varies (1–10%) |
Specific Cosmetic Applications & Typical Use Levels
| Application | Function(s) | Typical Use Level |
|---|---|---|
| Creams & Lotions | Thickener, emollient, stabilizer, non-greasy film former | 1–5% |
| Lipsticks & Lip Balms | Binder, texture modifier, plasticizer | 1–10% |
| Ointments & Balms | Base component, softener, humectant | 5–15% |
| Toothpaste | Humectant, stabilizer, prevents drying/cracking | 1–5% |
| Shaving Creams | Thickener, improves spreadability | 2–6% |
| Solid Deodorants | Binder, base carrier | 2–10% |
| Hair Conditioners | Humectant, viscosity adjuster | 0.5–3% |
| Cleansing Bars & Syndet | Plasticizer, binder | 1–5% |
| Face Masks (Leave-on) | Film-former, moisturizing agent | 0.5–2% |
| Makeup (e.g., foundation sticks) | Base component, smooth gliding effect | 2–10% |
Functional Highlights
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Moisturizing: Hygroscopic – attracts water, adds skin hydration
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Texture modification: Waxy feel, improves glide and structure in sticks/balms
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Stabilization: Helps emulsify or stabilize oil/water phases in creams
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Solubilizing aid: Helps dissolve low-solubility actives in aqueous bases
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Non-penetrating: High MW PEGs like PEG 6000 form a surface barrier, ideal for barrier creams
Formulation Notes
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Melting point: ~55–63 °C – blend into oil phase during heating
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Incompatibilities: Avoid high-electrolyte, very acidic, or strongly oxidising systems
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Regulatory: PEGs are generally safe, but ensure cosmetic-grade PEG 6000 with low levels of impurities (e.g., 1,4-dioxane, heavy metals)
Safety and Handling
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Non-toxic and biodegradable
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Avoid overheating – prolonged high temps can cause degradation
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Hygroscopic – store in dry conditions
Click here for Sales Specification sheet
Click here for current certificate of analysis COA
PLEASE NOTE: This product is not for human or animal consumption.