PEG-16 Soy Sterol

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-16 Soy Sterol?

PEG-16 Soy Sterol is a nonionic surfactant produced by reacting soy sterols—plant-derived lipids extracted from soybean oil—with 16 units of ethylene oxide to form a polyethylene glycol ether. Soy sterols consist primarily of beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and campesterol, giving it a lipid-like structure. In cosmetics, it appears in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and cleansers within hair care and skin care categories. It functions by reducing surface tension at the oil-water interface, enabling the formation of stable emulsions that prevent phase separation and provide smooth textures. As a surfactant, it helps disperse oils and dirt during cleansing while solubilizing hydrophobic ingredients into water-based formulas, contributing to effective rinsing and product performance without altering skin's natural barrier.

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:

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 stable blending of oils and water for even lotion and cream textures.

Enhances cleansing by lowering surface tension to lift away impurities.

Facilitates incorporation of oil-soluble actives into watery products.

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 with known sensitivity to ethoxylated compounds.
Individuals using shampoos or body washes for reliable foaming and rinse-off.
Individuals preferring strictly non-synthetic or PEG-free products.
People with normal skin types preferring consistent formula performance.
People experiencing irritation from surfactant-heavy cleansers.

Safety Notes

  • Regulators consider it safe in cosmetics when formulated to minimize impurities like ethylene oxide residues.
  • Non-comedogenic profile supports use in acne-prone routines without pore-clogging risk.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-16 Soy Sterol

What is PEG-16 Soy Sterol made from?

It derives from soy sterols, natural lipids from soybeans, chemically modified with polyethylene glycol chains.

Is it safe for daily use in cleansers?

Authoritative reviews deem it safe in cosmetic concentrations, supporting roles in shampoos and washes.

Does it clog pores?

Rated non-comedogenic, making it suitable for various skin types without pore blockage.