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PEG-4 STEARAMIDE.

Valuable / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

PEG-4 STEARAMIDE is a polyethylene glycol derivative primarily employed as a functional ingredient in cosmetic formulations, acting as an emulsifier and surfactant. It facilitates the harmonious blending of disparate liquid phases and contributes to the desirable texture and stability of products.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Viscosity controlling Humectant (potential) Penetration enhancer (potential)

Science

Mechanism of Action

Operating at the molecular interface, PEG-4 STEARAMIDE primarily functions as a surfactant, reducing the surface tension between different phases (e.g., oil and water) to enable their stable dispersion. As an emulsifier, it stabilizes these oil-in-water or water-in-oil systems. Furthermore, its polyethylene glycol (PEG) component may impart humectant properties, attracting and retaining moisture, and can potentially enhance the dermal penetration of other active ingredients within a formulation.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

PEG-4 STEARAMIDE demonstrates robust stability across a wide pH range and is resilient to both heat and common acidic or basic conditions, enhancing the overall integrity and shelf-life of formulations. It also contributes to an improved texture profile. While generally compatible with many cosmetic ingredients, it is explicitly prohibited in certified organic cosmetic formulations.

Conflicts

  • Prohibited in organic cosmetics

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has assessed PEG-4 STEARAMIDE and reaffirmed its safety for use in cosmetic applications, provided formulations are non-irritating. While the CIR panel deems it safe under these conditions, it is important to note that certain hazard databases list potential concerns such as genotoxicity, carcinogenicity, or reproductive toxicity. These more severe classifications are typically associated with the raw chemical, non-cosmetic contexts, or exposures at significantly higher concentrations than those found in consumer products. No specific maximum concentration limit beyond 'as used' for non-irritating formulations has been stipulated by CIR. Neither SCCS nor distinct FDA cosmetic ingredient approval was found; however, PEG-4 itself is an FDA-approved polymer for drug delivery systems.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-4 STEARAMIDE is a valuable ingredient for cosmetic formulation, effectively functioning as an emulsifier and surfactant to enhance product stability and texture, with a favorable safety profile for its intended use as assessed by the CIR.

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References

Sources