PEG-10 Soya Sterol

What is PEG-10 Soya Sterol?

PEG-10 Soya Sterol is a synthetic derivative created by ethoxylating soya sterols, which are natural lipid molecules extracted from soybeans, with ten units of polyethylene glycol. This modification enhances its solubility in water while retaining lipophilic properties, making it ideal for incorporation into skincare and haircare products such as creams, lotions, shampoos, and cleansers. In formulations, it works by lowering interfacial tension between immiscible oil and water phases, forming stable emulsions that prevent separation and ensure uniform texture. As a surfactant, it facilitates dirt removal and foam generation during cleansing. Its skin conditioning role involves improving product glide and leaving a soft after-feel on the skin without greasiness, supporting diverse emulsion-based systems.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-6 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.
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

Stabilizes oil-water mixtures in lotions and creams for consistent application.

Supports effective cleansing and foaming in shampoos and body washes.

Enhances skin softness and smoothness through conditioning properties.

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 moisturizers seeking stable, non-separating formulas.
Those with known sensitivities to ethoxylated ingredients.
Individuals with normal skin using daily cleansers for gentle surfactant action.
Individuals preferring formulations free of PEG compounds.
People incorporating conditioning agents in hair and body products.
People with soy-derived ingredient concerns, despite low allergenicity.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed as safe for cosmetic use by expert review panels with recommended purity standards.
  • Monitored for trace impurities like ethylene oxide, typical of ethoxylated materials.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-10 Soya Sterol

What is PEG-10 Soya Sterol made from?

It derives from soya sterols, plant lipids from soybeans, modified with polyethylene glycol for water solubility.

Is PEG-10 Soya Sterol comedogenic?

It carries a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore clogging.

What roles does it play in cosmetics?

Primarily acts as a skin conditioner, surfactant for cleansing, and emulsifying agent for stable blends.