PEG-150 Stearate

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-150 Stearate?

PEG-150 Stearate is a polyethylene glycol ester of stearic acid, synthesized by ethoxylating stearic acid—a saturated fatty acid from vegetable or animal fats—with 150 units of ethylene oxide. This creates a water-soluble, nonionic compound commonly used in skincare formulations like moisturizers, cleansers, shampoos, and makeup removers. As a surfactant, it reduces surface tension between oil and water phases, enabling stable emulsions that prevent separation and deliver smooth textures. In cleansing products, it forms micelles that encapsulate dirt and oils for easy rinsing. Its high degree of ethoxylation (150) enhances solubility and mildness compared to shorter-chain PEGs, making it suitable for rinse-off and leave-on items at typical low concentrations.

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.
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.

Benefits

Facilitates stable emulsions for even product consistency and application.

Supports effective dirt and oil removal during cleansing.

Promotes smooth spreadability without greasiness.

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 lotions and creams needing stable hydration.
Those sensitive to ethoxylated ingredients.
Individuals seeking gentle cleansing in shampoos or washes.
People opting for natural or PEG-free skincare.
People with normal skin preferring non-comedogenic formulas.
Individuals with barrier-compromised skin.

Safety Notes

  • Assessed as low hazard (EWG 1-3) with limited penetration concerns.
  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use by expert reviews when impurities are controlled.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-150 Stearate

What does PEG-150 Stearate do in skincare?

It acts as a surfactant to emulsify oils and water, and cleanses by forming micelles that lift away impurities.

Is PEG-150 Stearate comedogenic?

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

How safe is PEG-150 Stearate?

Rated low hazard by EWG (1-3) and safe for use in cosmetics per safety assessments.