Science
Mechanism of Action
This ingredient operates by reducing the interfacial tension between immiscible oil and water phases, thereby stabilizing emulsions. As a surfactant, it aids in cleansing by lowering surface tension. Additionally, the polyethylene glycol (PEG) component is known to attract and bind water molecules, acting as a humectant to enhance skin moisture content and barrier integrity.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 Clinical evaluations of PEG Stearates, a broader chemical class encompassing related compounds, have consistently shown no evidence of irritation or sensitization when tested at concentrations up to 25%.
- 02 In a specific topical application study, PEG-8 Stearate, a closely related compound, demonstrated non-irritating properties on rabbit skin at a 15% concentration.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Polyethylene glycols, including PEG-15 STEARAMIDE, exhibit good inherent stability and are not prone to microbiological degradation, minimizing the need for additional preservative systems for the raw material. Its structure, containing 15 ethylene oxide units, suggests excellent water dispersibility and potential solubility.
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed PEG-15 STEARAMIDE as safe for use in cosmetic formulations under current practices, provided the final product is non-irritating. Strict control over impurities is essential for ethoxylated ingredients like this, with maximum levels for ethylene oxide (5 ppm) and 1,4-dioxane (1 ppm) emphasized. It is critical to note that related PEG-propylene glycol stearates have a restriction against use on damaged skin due to isolated reports of sensitization and nephrotoxicity observed in burn patients treated with high concentrations of PEG-based preparations.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
PEG-15 STEARAMIDE is a valuable functional ingredient for emulsion stability and skin hydration, generally well-tolerated across skin types when formulated to be non-irritating and purified of potential contaminants.
Related
Similar Ingredients
Finding similar ingredients…
References
Sources