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Moumoujus

STEARETH-7.

Valuable CAS 9005-00-9 (Generic) / 66146-84-7 / SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Steareth-7 is a polyoxyethylene stearyl ether that functions primarily as an emulsifying agent, facilitating the stable blending of oil and water phases in formulations. It also acts as a surfactant, enhancing the spreadability and uniform distribution of cosmetic products.

Summary

emulsifying surfactant cleansing

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient operates by significantly reducing the surface tension between immiscible phases, thereby stabilizing emulsions and preventing separation. As a surfactant, it lowers the surface tension of the cosmetic formulation itself, allowing for a smoother, more even application onto the skin.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

There is no specific data available regarding the 'dusting' phenomenon for STEARETH-7.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Steareth-7 is effective in producing stable lotions and milks. It demonstrates stability in the presence of reactive chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide and ammonium thioglycolate, and can function as an opacifier. For higher viscosity products, co-formulation with cetostearyl alcohol or polyol esters is recommended. A 5% suspension of the closely related Ceteareth-7 exhibits a pH of approximately 5.9.

Synergies

  • cetostearyl alcohol (for increased viscosity)
  • polyol esters (for increased viscosity)

Conflicts

  • damaged skin (based on related Ceteareth data, due to PEG-related concerns)
  • other problematic ingredients (risk of increased irritation)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Unknown

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded Steareth-7, alongside other Steareth compounds, is safe for cosmetic use under current practices, a conclusion reaffirmed in 2006. While the FDA permits related fatty alcohols reacted with polyethylene glycol as indirect food additives in textiles, a crucial caveat exists for related Ceteareth ingredients: they should not be applied to damaged skin. This is based on data indicating potential kidney effects associated with Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs) when used on burn patients, suggesting a risk when the skin barrier is compromised.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

STEARETH-7 is a valuable emulsifier and surfactant, crucial for formulating stable and well-distributed products, provided it is not applied to compromised skin due to potential PEG-related risks.

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