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Glycereth-26

Polyethylene glycol glycerin ether with 26 moles of EO — a powerful moisturizer and solubilizer. Retains moisture better than regular glycerin due to the long PEG chain, leaving no sticky feeling. Popular in K-beauty lightweight moisturizing essences.

MoisturizerPEG derivative of glycerinSolubilizerNon-sticky

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Glycereth-26 — polyethylene glycol glycerin ether with 26 units of EO (ethylene oxide). Molecular weight ~1400 Da. Viscous clear liquid, well soluble in water. HLB ~18–19 (very hydrophilic). Larger EO chain compared to Glycereth-7 or Glycereth-12: better water retention, better solubilization, lower stickiness. Moisturizes through the hygroscopicity of the PEG chain: attracts and retains water. Also acts as a solubilizer for oil-soluble fragrances. Safe: approved by EU/FDA, SCCS found no issues at normal concentrations.

K-beauty lightweight essences and toners, gel moisturizers without a greasy feel, perfumed lotions (fragrance solubilization), ampoule serums for hydration.

Key Benefits

✦

Powerful hydration without the sticky feeling of glycerin

Glycerin is a great moisturizer, but at high concentrations, it gives a sticky feeling. Glycereth-26 moisturizes comparably effectively but with almost no stickiness: the long PEG chain reduces the surface stickiness of the molecule. At 2–5% in a lightweight toner or essence: noticeable hydration, quick absorption, clean finish. An ideal choice for K-beauty formulas where "non-sticky hydration" is a key requirement.

◈

Solubilization of essential oils and fragrances

HLB ~18–19 makes Glycereth-26 an effective solubilizer for fragrances and essential oils in aqueous bases. Clear scented lotions and essences without PEG-60 HCO or Polysorbate 20: Glycereth-26 in combination with a small amount of another surfactant can stabilize lightweight aromatic compositions. A simpler formulation with one ingredient performing two functions.

✧

Improved glide and feel on the skin

Glycereth-26 reduces friction during product application — the skin feels a "silky glide." Useful in massage lotions and post-shower products: improves spreading without the need for silicones. In toners: slightly increases viscosity, giving the product "body" without a film feel. Well compatible with most actives — does not affect the stability of AHA, niacinamide, peptides.

Suitable for

Oily and combination skinLightweight moisturizing formulasK-beauty essences

Main Actions

✓ Hydration without stickiness✓ Solubilization of fragrances✓ Texture improvement

Glycereth-26 vs Glycerin — when to choose what

Glycerin: cheaper, more effective at low concentrations (<3%), but sticky at 5%+. Glycereth-26: more expensive, less sticky at higher concentrations, better for lightweight textures. Mass market formulas: glycerin. K-beauty essences and premium: glycereth-26 or their combination (glycerin 2% + glycereth-26 2% = balance of effectiveness and feel). Glycereth-7 (smaller EO chain): stickier, better in thick creams.

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