Surfactant

PEG-100 Stearate

One of the most commonly used non-ionic emulsifiers in cosmetics. It provides stable O/W emulsions, improves the solubility of oils in water, and gives creams a characteristic silky texture. Usually used in conjunction with glyceryl stearate.

EmulsifierO/WPEG derivativeSilky texture

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

PEG-100 Stearate — a condensation product of stearic acid (C18) with 100 moles of ethylene oxide. Very hydrophilic (HLB ~18–19). By itself, it is a weak solubilizer, but in combination with Glyceryl Stearate (HLB 3–4), it forms an effective emulsifying system (HLB 8–12 for O/W). INCI: PEG-100 Stearate. This classic pair of PEG-100 Stearate/Glyceryl Stearate is the foundation of hundreds of creams and lotions. High degree of PEGylation (100 EO) → stability across a wide pH and temperature range.

O/W emulsions: day and night creams, body lotions, BB creams, and foundations. A standard functional component in mainstream and premium cosmetics.

Key Benefits

✦

Stable O/W emulsions with a silky texture

PEG-100 Stearate in a system with Glyceryl Stearate provides stable, fine-dispersed O/W emulsions. Characteristic texture — light, silky, absorbs quickly without greasiness. This "classic" pair has been the most popular emulsifying system in cream and lotion formulations for decades. Stability: wide pH (4–9), temperature up to 80°C.

◈

Solubilization of oils and fat-soluble actives

High hydrophilicity (HLB ~18) allows PEG-100 Stearate to dissolve small amounts of oils and fat-soluble vitamins in the aqueous phase. This is important for incorporating retinol, vitamins A/E, and essential oils into water gels and serums. The solubilized form can provide higher bioavailability compared to insoluble dispersions.

✧

Improvement of spreadability and tactile properties

PEG-100 Stearate reduces the surface tension of the formula → better wetting of the skin → even application. Characteristic feel after application: lightness, without a heavy film. In combination with cetearyl alcohol or behenyl alcohol — balances between lightness and nourishment.

Suitable for

Suitable for all skin typesNormal and oily skin (light textures)Combination skin

Main Actions

✓ O/W emulsification✓ Solubilization✓ Silky texture

PEG derivatives in cosmetics — safety

PEG (polyethylene glycol) derivatives are often found in "ingredient lists to avoid" in "clean beauty." Scientific data: PEG-100 Stearate is safe when produced correctly (absence of 1,4-dioxane — oxidation contamination). EU Cosmetics Regulation and EWG do not prohibit it. For sensitive skin: if a reaction occurs, look for non-PEG alternatives (coco-glucoside, cetearyl olivate).

CategorySurfactants

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