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PEG-9 DISTEARATE.

Valuable CAS 9005-08-7 / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

PEG-9 Distearate is a versatile polyethylene glycol ester primarily functioning as an emulsifying and solubilizing agent, adept at blending oil and water phases in cosmetic formulations. It also enhances product consistency and contributes to the cleansing efficacy by facilitating the removal of oils and dirt from skin and hair.

Summary

Surfactant Emulsifying Agent Solubilizer Cleansing Agent Consistency Enhancer Binding Agent Softening Agent Fixative Carrier Lubricant Heat Stabilizer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient works by significantly reducing surface tension, which is crucial for solubilizing water-insoluble compounds and stabilizing emulsions. As a cleansing agent, it enables water to effectively mix with and rinse away lipid-based impurities. In surfactant systems, it acts as a micellar thickening agent, promoting the formation of larger, more viscous micellar structures. Additionally, it serves as a carrier, lubricant, heat stabilizer, and fixative within various product matrices.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.5–50%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical assessments of related PEG Stearates demonstrated no irritation or sensitization at concentrations up to 25%.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

PEG-9 Distearate is unstable and prone to hydrolysis in hot alkaline solutions, and will saponify with strong acids or bases. A 10% dispersion typically presents a pH of 7.26. For optimal dissolution in water, it requires heating above its melting point (35-37°C), with its solubility further enhanced by the presence of other surfactants.

Synergies

  • Other surfactants (enhances dissolution)

Conflicts

  • Hot alkaline solutions
  • Strong acids
  • Strong bases
  • Salicylates
  • Phenolic substances
  • Iodine salts
  • Salts of bismuth
  • Salts of silver
  • Tannins
  • Preservatives (potential for complex formation)
  • Certain antimicrobial agents (e.g., bacitracin, chloramphenicol, phenoxymethylpenicillin, sodium penicillin, tetracycline) at concentrations exceeding 5% w/w, which may reduce their activity

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that PEG-9 Distearate and related PEG Distearates are safe for use in cosmetic formulations, provided they are formulated to be non-irritating. This assessment largely draws from data on related compounds, which generally exhibit low oral and dermal toxicity and minimal ocular irritation. Manufacturers are advised to mitigate trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane through purification processes and to exercise caution in formulations intended for use on damaged skin.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

PEG-9 Distearate is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, widely recognized for its efficacy as an emulsifier, solubilizer, and cleansing agent, presenting a low risk of irritation when properly formulated.

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