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Moumoujus

PEG-25 STEARATE.

Valuable CAS 9004-99-3 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-25 Stearate is a versatile nonionic surfactant and emulsifier, critical for blending oil and water phases in cosmetic formulations. Beyond its stabilizing role, it also offers skin conditioning benefits, contributing to moisture retention and emollience.

Summary

emulsifying surfactant solubilizer skin conditioning agent emollient moisturizing viscosity modifier penetration enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

Functioning as a hydrophilic, nonionic surfactant and emulsifier, PEG-25 Stearate enables the stable dispersion of oil and water ingredients, crucial for product consistency. It also aids in solubilizing other components, ensuring their uniform integration. On the skin, it acts as a conditioning agent, drawing and retaining moisture to impart emollient properties, and may enhance the penetration of other active ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical studies on various PEG Stearates (e.g., PEG-2, -8, -40, -50, and -100 Stearates) consistently demonstrated that they are neither irritants nor sensitizers.
  2. 02 A related compound, PEG-25 Propylene Glycol Stearate, was classified as nonallergenic in sensitization tests conducted in petrolatum.
  3. 03 An antiperspirant product containing PEG-25 Propylene Glycol Stearate was found to be nonirritating to mildly irritating to the eyes and practically nonirritating to the skin in single-insult occlusive patch tests.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

No data suggests this ingredient is commonly 'dusted' or presents specific risks related to airborne exposure.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient maintains stability across a range of temperatures, acids, and bases, with a 1% aqueous solution exhibiting a pH between 5.0 and 7.5. It demonstrates broad compatibility with other resins and generally does not react with many common chemicals.

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that PEG Stearates, including PEG-25 Stearate, are safe in cosmetic applications at concentrations up to 25%. However, it's crucial to acknowledge the potential for trace contamination with 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide, byproducts of the ethoxylation process, which manufacturers are expected to control. Products containing PEGs should not be applied to compromised or damaged skin, such as burns, due to documented instances of kidney damage in patients treated with PEG-based preparations under such conditions. PEG-25 Stearate is also approved for use as a food additive (E431).

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-25 Stearate is a valuable multifunctional ingredient, offering robust emulsifying and solubilizing properties alongside skin conditioning benefits, with a demonstrated low risk of irritation for intact skin.

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