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PEG-2 ISOSTEARATE.

Valuable CAS 56002-14-3 / CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-2 Isostearate is a polyethylene glycol derivative primarily utilized as a functional ingredient in skincare. It effectively stabilizes oil-in-water mixtures, ensuring homogenous product textures, and also contributes to the conditioning feel of formulations on the skin.

Emulsifying Agent Surfactant Skin Conditioning Agent Cleansing Agent

Science

This ingredient, a fatty acid ester of polyethylene glycol, functions predominantly as a surfactant and emulsifying agent. It facilitates the creation and maintenance of stable emulsions, allowing for the consistent integration of both aqueous and oil-based components within a product. Beyond its emulsifying capabilities, it acts as a skin conditioning agent, enhancing the sensorial profile, spreadability, and uniformity of cosmetic formulations. In cleansing applications, it aids in dissolving oils and dirt, enabling their efficient removal through rinsing.


Research

High confidence
Effective range ≤33.2%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that related PEG Stearates demonstrate no irritancy or sensitization, even at concentrations of 25% or greater in clinical studies.

Transparency

Not commonly dusted

No specific data regarding 'dusting' is available for PEG-2 Isostearate in the provided research.


The Formula

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 5 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

Polyethylene glycols and their derivatives, including PEG-2 Isostearate, exhibit robust stability. They are generally resistant to hydrolysis or degradation in the absence of oxygen during storage and maintain integrity when exposed to heat, acids, and bases.

Conflicts

  • Application on damaged skin

Safety

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

The CIR Expert Panel determined that PEG-2 diisostearate (a closely related diester) and the broader category of PEG Stearates are safe for cosmetic application, provided they are formulated to be non-irritating. Manufacturers are strongly advised to employ good manufacturing practices to minimize potential impurities like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, by-products of the ethoxylation process. This ingredient, and other PEGs, should not be applied to compromised or damaged skin. The SCCS generally supports the safety of PEGs and their derivatives when used under their intended cosmetic conditions.


Your Skin

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

Our Assessment

Valuable

PEG-2 Isostearate is a valuable ingredient for formulation stability and skin conditioning, demonstrating a low sensitization risk and broad skin type compatibility, provided it is not applied to damaged skin and impurities are controlled.


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