PEG-10 Glyceryl Stearate

What is PEG-10 Glyceryl Stearate?

PEG-10 Glyceryl Stearate is a polyethoxylated derivative of glyceryl stearate, featuring 10 units of ethylene oxide attached to create an amphiphilic molecule. Produced synthetically from stearic acid, glycerol, and ethylene oxide, it serves primarily in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetic formulations like body washes, shampoos, moisturizers, and foundations. As a surfactant, it reduces surface tension between liquids and solids, aiding in dirt removal and foam generation during cleansing. In its emulsifying role, it forms a protective layer at the oil-water interface, preventing phase separation and ensuring product uniformity. This dual functionality makes it valuable in water-in-oil and oil-in-water systems, contributing to spreadability and sensory appeal without greasiness.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 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 lowering surface tension to lift impurities.

Stabilizes emulsions for consistent lotion and cream textures.

Helps create lightweight formulas suitable for daily use.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users of emulsified products like lotions seeking smooth application.
Those sensitive to ethoxylated compounds may experience mild reactions.
Individuals preferring non-comedogenic cleansers and washes.
Individuals avoiding synthetic surfactants in sensitive routines.
People with normal to oily skin needing stable hydration.
People concerned about potential trace impurities in PEG ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Rated moderate concern by some databases due to manufacturing contaminants.
  • Generally recognized as safe in cosmetics by expert reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-10 Glyceryl Stearate

What does PEG-10 Glyceryl Stearate do in products?

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

Is it safe for daily skincare use?

Expert panels deem it safe at typical cosmetic levels, with moderate overall ratings.

Does it clog pores?

It carries a comedogenic rating of zero, making it unlikely to contribute to breakouts.