PEG-250 Distearate

What is PEG-250 Distearate?

PEG-250 Distearate is a high-molecular-weight ester formed by reacting polyethylene glycol with average polymerization degree of 250 with distearic acid, a saturated fatty acid derived from plant or animal sources. This waxy, white solid belongs to the PEG fatty acid esters family and serves mainly as an emulsifying surfactant in cosmetics. It functions by lowering interfacial tension between oil and water phases, promoting stable emulsions in creams, lotions, and shampoos. In cleansing products, it facilitates micelle formation to lift away oils and residues. Its large PEG chain enhances water solubility, making it ideal for solubilizing hydrophobic ingredients like fragrances into aqueous formulas. Typically used in rinse-off items at low levels, it contributes to creamy textures and foam stability without leaving residues.

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.
Solubilizing agent
Helps incorporate oils and fragrance into water-based formulas by forming micro-solutions, enabling clear sprays, toners, and micellar products.

Benefits

Supports stable emulsions for consistent product textures in lotions and creams.

Enhances cleansing efficiency by dispersing oils and dirt in washes and shampoos.

Facilitates incorporation of fragrances and oils into clear water-based formulas.

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 daily cleansers and body washes seeking effective dirt removal.
Those with heightened sensitivity to PEG compounds.
Individuals with normal to oily skin preferring non-comedogenic emulsifiers.
Individuals preferring PEG-free formulations.
People using emulsion-based moisturizers for smooth application.
Users concerned about potential impurities in ethoxylated ingredients.

Safety Notes

  • Rated moderate concern by EWG due to possible contamination risks from manufacturing.
  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use by Cosmetic Ingredient Review when formulated properly.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-250 Distearate

What products commonly contain PEG-250 Distearate?

Found in shampoos, conditioners, body washes, lotions, and creams for emulsifying and cleansing.

Is PEG-250 Distearate comedogenic?

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

What is the EWG rating for this ingredient?

EWG assigns it a score of 3, reflecting moderate overall concern.