PEG-10 Isostearate

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-10 Isostearate?

PEG-10 Isostearate is a non-ionic surfactant created by esterifying isostearic acid—a branched-chain fatty acid derived from natural oils—with polyethylene glycol containing 10 ethylene oxide units. This results in a hydrophilic molecule that reduces surface tension in formulations. Commonly found in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and moisturizers, it functions by forming micelles that trap oils and dirt for easy rinsing, while also stabilizing emulsions to prevent separation of oil and water phases. Its amphiphilic structure enables effective blending in both rinse-off and leave-on products, contributing to smooth textures and consistent performance across various cosmetic categories like hair care and skin care.

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

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.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
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 stable blending of oils and water for even lotion and cream textures.

Facilitates dirt and oil removal in shampoos and washes through micelle formation.

Provides non-comedogenic cleansing suitable for diverse 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 effective yet mild cleansers for daily routines.
Those preferring formulations free of ethoxylated compounds.
Users of emulsified products like lotions needing consistent application.
Individuals sensitive to potential trace impurities in PEG ingredients.
People with normal to oily skin benefiting from surfactant action.
Users opting for minimalistic or natural-only skincare regimens.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed as safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews when formulated appropriately.
  • Rated moderate concern overall, with low comedogenic potential.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-10 Isostearate

What does PEG-10 Isostearate do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse by forming micelles and an emulsifier to mix oil and water phases stably.

Is PEG-10 Isostearate comedogenic?

It has a low comedogenic rating, making it unlikely to clog pores.

Are there safety concerns with PEG-10 Isostearate?

Regulatory bodies deem it safe in cosmetics, with focus on purity to minimize impurities.