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PEG-3 STEARATE.

Valuable CAS 9004-99-3 / HUMECTANT

PEG-3 Stearate is a versatile ethoxylated fatty acid ester known for its multi-functional role as an emulsifier, humectant, and surfactant. It is designed to stabilize formulations and enhance product texture while delivering moisturizing and cleansing benefits to the skin.

Summary

Humectant Emulsifier Cleansing agent Surfactant Emollient Solubilizer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient effectively stabilizes emulsions by reducing the surface tension between immiscible oil and water phases, allowing them to blend uniformly. As a humectant, PEG-3 Stearate attracts and binds water molecules through hydrogen bonds, forming a barrier on the skin that aids in long-term hydration and reduces transepidermal water loss. Its surfactant properties facilitate the removal of oil and dirt from the skin, while also contributing emollient effects that promote a soft and conditioned feel.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Safety Assessment of PEG Stearates as Used in Cosmetics (CIR)

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Polyethylene glycols and their derivatives, including PEG-3 Stearate, exhibit a broad spectrum of stability properties, making them suitable for formulation within neutral, mildly alkaline, and acidic systems.

Conflicts

  • Application to damaged skin should be avoided.
  • Manufacturers must meticulously control and remove potential impurities such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide, which are by-products of the ethoxylation process.

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The CIR Expert Panel concluded that PEG-3 Stearate is safe for use in cosmetic formulations, particularly when used at concentrations up to 25%, where it has been found to be neither an irritant nor a sensitizer in human studies. They advise manufacturers to adjust product formulations carefully for any intended use on damaged skin. The FDA designates it as safe for general or specific, limited use in food. While no specific SCCS opinion was found, related PEG Distearate ingredients are permissible in Europe, provided their stearic acid component adheres to EU animal by-products legislation. Rigorous control of impurities like 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide is critical.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-3 Stearate is a valuable multi-functional ingredient that enhances product texture and stability while offering hydrating, cleansing, and conditioning benefits suitable for a wide range of skin types, with a low risk of irritation or sensitization.

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