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Ingredient directory

Isosteareth-22

ISOSTEARETH-22 is a non-ionic polyethylene glycol (PEG) ether of isostearyl alcohol, distinguished by 22 ethoxylate units. It functions primarily as an emulsifier and surfactant, integral for stabilizing complex formulations and solubilizing diverse compounds.

Directory entry · Individual source review pending

This profile is awaiting an individual source review. Treat its ratings, dose estimates and compatibility labels as provisional; they are not medical advice or proof of a finished product’s effects.

Emulsifying Surfactant Cleansing Agent Solubilizer Foam Producer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates by significantly reducing the interfacial tension between immiscible phases, such as oil and water, thereby enabling the formation and stability of emulsions. Its surfactant properties also facilitate cleansing and aid in foam production. Due to its 22 ethoxylate units, ISOSTEARETH-22 exhibits strong hydrophilic characteristics, making it an effective oil-in-water (O/W) emulsifier and solubilizer for hydrophobic components within aqueous systems.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

ISOSTEARETH-22 functions as a fundamental excipient, not an active ingredient typically 'dusted' at low, potentially ineffective concentrations. Its primary role is structural and functional within the formulation itself.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

No specific optimal pH range for ISOSTEARETH-22 itself has been identified. However, general skincare formulations, where this ingredient is used, typically maintain pH levels between 4.5 and 6.5 for optimal stability and performance. The number of ethoxylate units, in this case 22, directly correlates with increased hydrophilicity and water solubility for PEG derivatives of fatty alcohols.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that alkyl PEG ethers, including Isosteareth-22, are safe under current practices of use and concentration, provided they are formulated to be non-irritating. This safety assessment covers a maximum concentration of 1% in leave-on products and 2% in rinse-off formulations.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Unknown
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

ISOSTEARETH-22 is a valuable formulation excipient, effectively stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions and solubilizing hydrophobic ingredients, with a strong safety profile at recommended concentrations for diverse cosmetic applications.

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