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PEG-200 TRIHYDROXYSTEARIN.

Valuable CAS - / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-200 TRIHYDROXYSTEARIN is a multi-functional cosmetic ingredient that combines the humectant properties of polyethylene glycol with the emollient and thickening capabilities of trihydroxystearin. It significantly enhances product texture while delivering substantial hydration and improving skin barrier function.

Summary

Emulsifying Skin Conditioning Viscosity Controlling Humectant Film Forming Moisturizing Thickening Penetration Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions synergistically: the polyethylene glycol (PEG) component acts as a humectant by forming hydrogen bonds with water molecules, thereby drawing and retaining moisture within the skin, reducing transepidermal water loss, and enhancing barrier function. It also serves as a penetration enhancer for other topical ingredients. Concurrently, the trihydroxystearin, derived from castor oil, acts as an emollient to soften and smooth the skin, a film former to provide a protective layer, and a viscosity controller to thicken formulations like oils and silicones, improving spreadability.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

The PEG 200 component is generally stable and nonreactive under normal conditions, maintaining a pH-neutral profile. The trihydroxystearin component also exhibits stability with a pH of 7.0. However, the ingredient should be protected from strong oxidizers, open flames, and direct sunlight. Furthermore, both PEG and related polymers are susceptible to sonolytic degradation, which can lead to the formation of potentially toxic byproducts.

Conflicts

  • strong oxidizers
  • sonolytic degradation

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The CIR Expert Panel has affirmed the general safety of polyethylene glycol (PEG) ingredients, including PEG-200, for cosmetic use. This assessment is supported by their low oral and dermal toxicity, minimal absorption through intact skin (for PEGs with molecular weight 75 and greater), and a history of not causing irritation, sensitization, mutagenesis, or carcinogenicity. While a specific instance of kidney toxicity was observed in severely burned patients when PEGs were used in antimicrobial creams, no systemic toxicity was noted on intact skin. Manufacturers are advised to control trace levels of 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide, by-products of the ethoxylation process, through rigorous purification. Trihydroxystearin itself presents a low risk of irritation or allergic reactions.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-200 TRIHYDROXYSTEARIN is a valuable multi-functional ingredient providing essential emulsification, thickening, and significant moisturizing benefits across a broad spectrum of cosmetic formulations.

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