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PEG-12 STEARATE.

Valuable CAS 9004-99-3 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-12 Stearate is a polyglycol ester of stearic acid, primarily utilized as an emulsifier to effectively blend oil and water components in formulations. Beyond its foundational role in stabilization, it offers conditioning benefits for skin and hair, aids in cleansing, and can enhance the dermal penetration of other active ingredients. Its safety profile is robust, exhibiting low irritancy and no sensitization risk.

Summary

Emulsifying Conditioning Cleansing Penetration Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

PEG-12 Stearate functions primarily by reducing the surface tension between immiscible liquids, thereby creating and stabilizing emulsions of oil-in-water or water-in-oil. This emulsifying action is crucial for formulating stable cosmetic products. Additionally, it acts as a conditioning agent, contributing to a smoother feel on skin and hair, and facilitates the removal of dirt and oil during cleansing. Notably, it can also serve as a penetration enhancer, optimizing the delivery of other beneficial ingredients into the skin.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Significantly increased ketoprofen fluxes and dermal penetration in hairless mouse skin, indicating its potential as a penetration enhancer for other ingredients in topical formulations.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 5.5 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

PEG Stearates are considered relatively stable compounds. For optimal product integrity, formulations containing PEG-12 Stearate should be stored light-protected in a cool, dry environment.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
25%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has consistently concluded that PEG-12 Stearate is safe for use in cosmetics, reaffirming this stance in 2002 and 2024. Clinical data indicates it is neither an irritant nor a sensitizer, even at concentrations of 25% or greater. Furthermore, the FDA has approved similar PEG Stearates for indirect food additive use, and PEG-12 Stearate itself is listed in CFR regulations for use in textiles that come into contact with food, underscoring its broad safety profile.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-12 Stearate is a versatile and safe ingredient, offering essential emulsifying and conditioning properties while also enhancing the dermal delivery of other beneficial actives within a formulation.

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