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STEARETH-40.

Valuable CAS 9005-00-9 (Generic) / CLEANSING, GEL FORMING, SURFACTANT - CLEANSING

STEARETH-40 is a polyoxyethylene stearyl ether that serves as a versatile surfactant, expertly facilitating the blend of oil and water phases in formulations. It contributes to effective cleansing and optimizes product texture, maintaining a favorable safety profile when properly formulated to be non-irritating.

Summary

Surfactant Cleansing Agent Emulsifying Agent Solubilizing Agent Gel-forming Agent Thickener Texture Enhancer

Science

Mechanism of Action

As a polyethylene glycol ether of stearyl alcohol, STEARETH-40 operates as a surfactant, significantly reducing the surface tension of liquids. This action is crucial for enabling the fine mixing of immiscible substances, such as oil and water, thereby forming stable emulsions. It also functions as a solubilizer, assisting in the dissolution of lipophilic components within water-based products, and acts as a cleansing agent by helping to remove fat and soil particles from skin and hair. Beyond these primary functions, STEARETH-40 enhances product aesthetics by acting as a gel-forming agent, thickener, and overall texture enhancer.

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 N/A
0 7 14

Stability

STEARETH-40, consistent with related ethoxylated stearyl alcohol derivatives, demonstrates robust stability across a wide pH spectrum, including both acidic and alkaline conditions.

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents.
  • May enhance the dermal penetration of co-formulated ingredients, necessitating careful consideration for ingredients whose safety assessments rely on minimal permeation.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe with restrictions
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded that Steareth ingredients, including STEARETH-40, are safe for use in cosmetic products when formulated to be non-irritating. Testing of related PEG Stearates at 100% showed only minimal skin and eye irritation. Manufacturers are advised to control residual 1,4-dioxane, a potential by-product of the ethoxylation process, through rigorous purification steps. STEARETH-40 is permissible for use in cosmetics marketed within the European Union under general regulatory provisions.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

STEARETH-40 is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, crucial for creating stable emulsions and enhancing texture across diverse skincare formulations, with a well-defined safety profile when formulated correctly.

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