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PEG-150 DISTEARATE.

Valuable CAS 9005-08-7 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

PEG-150 Distearate is a polyoxyethylene derivative of stearic acid, serving as a multifunctional ingredient to optimize the texture and stability of cosmetic and personal care formulations. It primarily functions as an effective thickening agent and emulsifier, while also contributing mild cleansing properties.

Viscosity Controlling Emulsifying Surfactant/Cleansing Solubilizer Conditioning Agent

Science

This ingredient functions by significantly increasing the viscosity of aqueous solutions, achieved through the swelling of its molecular structure within a formulation. As an emulsifier, it stabilizes oil-in-water systems by reducing the interfacial tension between immiscible components, preventing phase separation. Additionally, it acts as a mild surfactant, aiding in the solubilization of water-insoluble ingredients and facilitating the removal of oil and dirt, thereby supporting effective cleansing and conditioning in hair and skin applications.


Research

High confidence
Effective range 0.5–50%
Optimal

0.5-5% for thickening and emulsifying properties; concentrations up to 33.2% proven safe in specific applications.

Key findings

  1. 01 The CIR Safety Assessment confirmed the safety of PEG-150 Distearate for use at reported concentrations, including up to 33.2% in skin cleansing products, up to 9.4% in rinse-off baby products, and up to 4.5% in bath products.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

PEG-150 Distearate is typically incorporated at functional concentrations to achieve its thickening and emulsifying effects, with no indication of being 'dusted' at sub-efficacious levels.


The Formula

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Maintains stable performance within a pH range of 5.0 to 8.0, which encompasses most cosmetic formulations. It exhibits robust thermal stability, performing reliably between -10°C and 80°C. It dissolves readily in hot water (above 60°C) and polar organic solvents, showing only slight solubility in cold water and insolubility in mineral and vegetable oils.


Safety

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
33.2%
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel concluded that PEG-150 Distearate is safe for use in cosmetic formulations as currently used, with the highest assessed concentration being 33.2% in skin cleansing products. Adherence to purification processes is essential to control potential 1,4-dioxane impurities. The CIR recommends minimizing untoward effects for products applied to damaged skin.


Your Skin

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Valuable

PEG-150 Distearate is a valuable formulating agent due to its proven efficacy in thickening, emulsifying, and mild cleansing, making it suitable for a broad spectrum of stable and aesthetically pleasing skincare products.


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