Isosteareth-10

What is Isosteareth-10?

Isosteareth-10 is a synthetic ingredient formed by ethoxylating isostearyl alcohol—a branched-chain fatty alcohol typically sourced from plant oils or petroleum—with ten molecules of ethylene oxide. This process creates a hydrophilic head and lipophilic tail, making it an effective non-ionic surfactant. It appears in rinse-off cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and leave-on lotions or creams within the personal care category. As a surfactant, it decreases surface tension between liquids and solids, facilitating dirt removal and foam generation during washing. In its emulsifying role, it stabilizes formulations by creating a barrier at oil-water boundaries, preventing separation and ensuring smooth, uniform textures that enhance product spreadability and sensory feel on skin.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-3 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.

Benefits

Supports gentle cleansing by reducing surface tension for effective removal of oils and impurities.

Stabilizes emulsions in creams and lotions for consistent texture and even application.

Contributes to low-comedogenic formulas suitable for various skin types.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking mild surfactants in daily cleansers and washes.
Those with sensitivity to ethoxylated compounds.
Users of emulsified products like moisturizers needing stable blends.
Individuals preferring PEG-free formulations.
People preferring non-comedogenic ingredients in their routines.
People experiencing reactions to similar alkyl ethers.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for use in cosmetics by expert reviews.
  • Shows low potential for comedogenicity in formulations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Isosteareth-10

What does Isosteareth-10 do in products?

It acts as a surfactant for cleansing and foaming, and an emulsifier to mix oil and water stably.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

It has a low irritation profile based on cosmetic safety evaluations.

Does it clog pores?

Rated non-comedogenic, making it suitable for pore-conscious routines.