PEG-30 Glyceryl Stearate

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-30 Glyceryl Stearate?

PEG-30 Glyceryl Stearate is a non-ionic surfactant formed by reacting glyceryl stearate—a ester of glycerol and stearic acid derived from plant or animal fats—with about 30 units of ethylene oxide through ethoxylation. This process creates a hydrophilic molecule suited for water-based cosmetics. It appears in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, lotions, and micellar waters. In formulations, it reduces surface tension between oil and water phases, forming stable micelles that lift away dirt and oils during cleansing. As an emulsifier, it stabilizes cream and lotion textures by creating a protective film at the oil-water interface. Its solubilizing action disperses fragrances and essential oils evenly, preventing separation and ensuring clear, consistent products without residue.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores

EWG Safety Rating 3 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.

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.

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 thorough cleansing by forming micelles that rinse away oils and impurities.

Stabilizes emulsions in lotions and creams for smooth, non-separating textures.

Enables clear solubilization of fragrances and oils in water-based sprays and toners.

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 seeking effective dirt and oil removal.	Those sensitive to ethoxylated ingredients may experience mild reactions.
People applying lotions or creams who want even, stable product consistency.	People preferring natural, PEG-free skincare options.
Individuals using micellar waters or toners for fragrance-infused, clear formulas.	Individuals with compromised skin barriers opting for minimal surfactants.

Safety Notes

Considered safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews, with low comedogenic potential.
Potential for impurities minimized in high-quality manufacturing.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-30 Glyceryl Stearate

What products commonly contain PEG-30 Glyceryl Stearate?

Found in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, lotions, and micellar waters for emulsifying and cleansing.

Is it suitable for oily skin types?

Its non-comedogenic nature and cleansing action make it appropriate for oil control without pore clogging.

Does it help with product texture?

Yes, it stabilizes oil-water mixes for smooth, consistent lotions and creams.