Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

PEG-4 GLYCERYL TRISTEARATE.

Valuable CAS 41080-66-4 / SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-4 Glyceryl Tristearate is a functional ester renowned for its multifaceted role in skincare formulations. It acts primarily as an emulsifier, stabilizing oil and water phases, while simultaneously delivering emollient and hydrating benefits to the skin, enhancing overall product performance and skin feel.

Summary

emulsifying emollient surfactant skin conditioning

Science

Mechanism of Action

Functioning fundamentally as an emulsifier and surfactant, PEG-4 Glyceryl Tristearate enables the stable blending of immiscible oil and water components, thereby improving formulation consistency and spreadability. As a polyoxyethylene glycol (PEG) derivative, it exhibits humectant properties by forming hydrogen bonds with water molecules, drawing moisture to the skin and creating a protective barrier to minimize transepidermal water loss. Its emollient action further contributes to a smoother, softer skin texture, and may enhance the absorption of other active ingredients.

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 5.5 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

This ingredient effectively stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions. A related emulsifier system (Glyceryl Stearate and PEG-100 Stearate) shows optimal performance at a pH range of 5.5-7.5 for a 3% solution, tolerating a final pH between approximately 4 and 9. It maintains emulsion stability even in the presence of high electrolyte concentrations and is compatible with diverse ionic emulsifiers. For optimal dispersion, it is recommended to dissolve the ingredient fully before incorporation into either the water or oil phase.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed PEG Stearates, including closely related compounds like PEG-4 Stearate, safe for use in cosmetics at current concentrations. Broader categories, such as 'Fatty Ester End-Capped Alkoxylates,' have also undergone safety assessments. While a specific maximum concentration for PEG-4 Glyceryl Tristearate is not available, related PEG Stearates demonstrated non-irritating and non-sensitizing effects in clinical studies at concentrations up to 25%. Glyceryl tristearate, the non-ethoxylated form, is recognized by the FDA as a regulated food additive.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-4 Glyceryl Tristearate is a valuable ingredient that effectively ensures formulation stability and provides beneficial skin conditioning effects, carrying a low risk of irritation.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…

References

Sources