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PEG-12 GLYCERYL DISTEARATE.

Valuable / SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT

PEG-12 Glyceryl Distearate is a multi-functional ingredient primarily recognized for its skin conditioning properties. It acts as an emollient and humectant, contributing to softer and smoother skin. Beyond its direct skin benefits, it significantly aids in product formulation by enhancing consistency and facilitating the blending of oil and water.

Summary

Emollient Skin Conditioning Humectant Viscosity Controlling Emulsifying Solvent Solubilizer

Science

Mechanism of Action

On the skin, PEG-12 Glyceryl Distearate functions by forming a hydrating film that helps to prevent moisture loss, thereby improving the skin's texture and feel. Within a cosmetic formula, it serves as an emulsifying agent, effectively reducing interfacial tension to allow disparate oil and water phases to mix uniformly. It also acts as a solvent and solubilizer, improving the dispersion and stability of active compounds, fragrance oils, and colorants.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient is soluble in water, with a 3% solution maintaining stability within a pH range of 5.0 to 7.5. PEG compounds are generally well-tolerated by the skin and exhibit robust microbiological stability, often reducing the need for extensive preservation.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that PEG-2, -6, -8, -12, -20, -32, -40, -50, -100, and -150 Distearate are safe for use in cosmetic formulations. Generally, PEG ingredients demonstrate low toxicity upon oral or dermal exposure and minimal ocular irritation. PEG Stearates specifically have not been identified as irritants, sensitizers, or phototoxins, and there is no evidence of mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, or reproductive/developmental toxicity for related compounds. While concerns regarding potential 1,4-dioxane contamination (a by-product of ethoxylation) exist, this can be effectively managed through appropriate purification steps. The FDA also designates it as safe for specific, limited food uses. A cautionary note involves a specific medical context: the use of PEG-containing antibiotic ointment has been associated with kidney effects when applied several times daily over large areas of burned skin in burn patients; this specific scenario should not be extrapolated to general cosmetic use.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-12 Glyceryl Distearate is a valuable multi-functional ingredient that supports formulation integrity and provides skin-softening benefits, with a well-established safety profile for general cosmetic use.

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