PEG-45 Palm Kernel Glycerides
PEG-45 Palm Kernel Glycerides is a mild, plant-derived emulsifier and surfactant commonly used in UK skincare and haircare to help blend oils with water and create smooth, stable textures in creams, cleansers and lotions.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics, PEG-45 Palm Kernel Glycerides works by reducing surface tension between oil and water phases, allowing ingredients to mix uniformly and form stable emulsions. It also functions as a gentle cleansing agent and solubiliser, helping to dissolve fragrances, essential oils and other lipophilic ingredients in water-based formulas while contributing to a soft, conditioning after-feel on skin and hair.
Key benefits
- Creates stable oil-in-water emulsions
- Helps produce creamy, luxurious textures
- Acts as a mild surfactant for gentle cleansing
- Improves rinse-off and solubility of oils
- Enhances product spreadability
- Provides light conditioning feel
Best for
normal skin, combination skin, oily skin, sensitive skin
Where it comes from
It is derived from palm kernel oil obtained from the seeds of the oil palm tree (Elaeis guineensis), which is then reacted with glycerin and polyethylene glycol to create the final ingredient.
Products with PEG-45 Palm Kernel Glycerides
Not every product on UK Lips lists a full ingredient breakdown — so there may be many more formulas that contain PEG-45 Palm Kernel Glycerides than we can show here. These are the comparisons where we’ve confirmed it in the listed ingredients.
- Moroccanoil Root Boost Volume Hair Spray 250ml Moroccanoil