PEG-12 Distearate

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-12 Distearate?

PEG-12 Distearate is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) ester formed by reacting stearic acid, a common saturated fatty acid from plant or animal fats, with PEG-12, a chain of 12 ethylene oxide units. This creates a waxy solid used mainly in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics like lotions, creams, shampoos, and conditioners. It functions by reducing surface tension to cleanse effectively, forming a protective film at oil-water interfaces to stabilize emulsions and prevent separation, and modifying flow properties to achieve ideal thickness for easy application and even distribution. Its dual hydrophilic and lipophilic nature makes it valuable in diverse formulations requiring consistent performance.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-3 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.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.

Benefits

Supports stable blending of ingredients for even texture in creams and cleansers.

Enhances cleansing action by lowering surface tension without leaving residue.

Allows customizable thickness for better product feel and spreadability.

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 seeking smooth, non-separating emulsion-based moisturizers.
Those preferring PEG-free products due to sensitivity concerns.
Individuals preferring gentle cleansing in shampoos or body washes.
Individuals wary of ethoxylated ingredients in personal care.
People wanting controlled viscosity for easy-to-apply lotions.
Users with known reactions to fatty acid esters.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with scores from 1 to 3.
  • Generally recognized as safe in cosmetics when impurities are minimized.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-12 Distearate

What does PEG-12 Distearate do in products?

It acts as a surfactant for cleansing, emulsifier for mixing phases, and viscosity controller for texture.

Is PEG-12 Distearate safe for daily use?

It receives low hazard ratings from evaluators and is widely used in cosmetics.

Does it cause irritation or breakouts?

Evidence shows low comedogenic potential and generally mild profile.