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Moumoujus

PEG-40 GLYCERYL TRIISOSTEARATE.

Questionable / SKIN CONDITIONING - EMOLLIENT, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-40 Glyceryl Triisostearate is a synthetic polyoxyethylenated ester derived from glycerin and isostearic acid. This multifunctional ingredient excels as an emulsifier and solubilizer, effectively blending oil and water phases, and also acts as an emollient to enhance skin conditioning and texture.

Summary

Emollient Emulsifier Solubilizer Surfactant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates as a powerful emulsifier and solubilizer by significantly lowering the interfacial tension between disparate oil and water components, facilitating the formation of stable, uniform emulsions. Its surfactant properties also enable it to encapsulate and lift impurities, making it highly effective in cleansing formulations. Furthermore, it contributes emollient benefits, promoting skin softness and contributing to overall hydration and improved product feel.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 3–20%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 Studies on the closely related PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate indicate effective performance in cleansing oil formulations at concentrations between 5-15%, demonstrating its capacity to dissolve and lift makeup, sebum, and environmental impurities.
  2. 02 For similar PEGylated oils, concentrations ranging from 3-10% are often cited as optimal for achieving robust emulsification and solubilization. A related compound, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, has been reported to be non-irritating at concentrations up to 22% in leave-on hair products.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

No specific data regarding 'dusting' behavior for PEG-40 Glyceryl Triisostearate was identified in the available research.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3 – 10
0 7 14

Stability

Based on the documented properties of chemically analogous PEGylated compounds, such as PEG-40 Stearate and PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-40 Glyceryl Triisostearate is predicted to exhibit high chemical inertness and enhanced stability across a broad pH range, from acidic (pH 3) to alkaline (pH 10). It is anticipated to resist oxidation and maintain its efficacy without significant chemical degradation.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
5%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has not conducted a specific safety assessment for PEG-40 Glyceryl Triisostearate. However, the CIR has evaluated related PEGylated oils and PEG Stearates (e.g., PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-40 Stearate) and deemed them safe for cosmetic use when formulated to be non-irritating. For the closely related PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, a maximum use concentration of 5% is suggested for leave-on cosmetic products. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) lists PEG-40 Glyceryl Triisostearate as 'Restricted' for EWG VERIFIED products, citing 'Contamination concerns (high)' primarily due to potential impurities like Ethylene Oxide and 1,4-Dioxane.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

PEG-40 Glyceryl Triisostearate offers valuable emulsifying and emollient properties essential for diverse formulations; however, its 'not reviewed' status by CIR for this specific compound and high contamination concerns from EWG necessitate meticulous sourcing and rigorous quality control for use in precision skincare.

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