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STEARETH-6.

Valuable CAS 9005-00-9 (Generic) / 2420-29-3 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Steareth-6 is a polyoxyethylene stearyl ether that functions primarily as an emulsifier and surfactant in cosmetic formulations. It is crucial for stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions, ensuring product integrity and consistent texture, while also offering mild emollient benefits.

Summary

Emulsifying Surfactant Emollient

Science

Mechanism of Action

Steareth-6 operates by significantly reducing the interfacial tension between immiscible oil and water phases, thereby facilitating the formation and stabilization of robust oil-in-water emulsions. As a surfactant, it lowers the surface tension of products, promoting uniform spreading and aiding in gentle cleansing. Additionally, its chemical structure imparts mild emollient properties, contributing to a smoother feel on the skin.

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-6 exhibits high stability across a wide pH range, including extreme acidic (e.g., fruit acid emulsions) and alkaline (e.g., hair dye cream) conditions, and is compatible with inorganic salts. It is soluble in ethanol and other solvents, and disperses in water.

Conflicts

  • strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that Steareth ingredients, including Steareth-6, are safe for use in cosmetic formulations under current practices of use and concentration, provided they are formulated to be non-irritating. This conclusion was reaffirmed in 2006. Studies on chemically similar Steareths (Steareth-2, Steareth-10) showed at most mild irritation to eyes and skin when tested in cosmetic formulations at concentrations up to 60%. Steareth-20 was nontoxic when administered dermally at 4%. The FDA permits fatty alcohols reacted with polyethylene glycol (including Steareth-6) as indirect food additives. Small amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of ethoxylation, may be present but can be controlled through purification.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Steareth-6 is a valuable functional ingredient in precision skincare due to its highly effective emulsifying and surfactant properties, exceptional formulation stability, and established low irritation potential, making it instrumental for product consistency and user experience.

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