Methyl Gluceth-20
Also known as Methyl Gluceth-20, Glucam E-20, methyl glucoside ethoxylate (20 EO)
“CIR Expert Panel says: safe as used in cosmetics.”
The CIR Expert Panel assessed the safety of Methyl Glucose Polyethers and Esters (including Methyl Gluceth-20) in 2016 and concluded these ingredients are safe in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration, with no significant systemic exposure expected from topical cosmetic use. Methyl Gluceth-20 is an ethoxylated derivative and therefore carries a trace 1,4-dioxane byproduct concern inherent to the ethoxylation process; no ingredient-specific PubMed studies beyond the CIR group assessment were identified.
Effective humectant — attracts and retains moisture in skin
Sugar-based (methyl glucoside backbone) with favorable skin compatibility
Good formulation compatibility; improves texture and spreadability
Non-comedogenic; suitable for sensitive skin
- · 1,4-dioxane trace contaminant from ethoxylation manufacturing process (not intentionally added; removable by vacuum stripping)
CIR Quick Reference Table (October 2024) — METHYL GLUCETH-20 row: Finding=S, Citation=IJT 35(Suppl. 2):12-40, 2016
“Methyl Gluceth-20 | S | | IJT 35(Suppl. 2):12-40, 2016”— QRT-Update-100824_0.pdf, p. 167