PEG-8 Distearate

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-8 Distearate?

PEG-8 Distearate is a synthetic compound created by reacting polyethylene glycol with eight ethylene oxide units to stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid from vegetable or animal origins. This ethoxylated ester serves as a key ingredient in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics, particularly in emulsions and cleansing products. It works by lowering interfacial tension between immiscible oil and water phases, forming a protective film that stabilizes mixtures and prevents separation. In its surfactant role, it disperses oils and soils effectively during rinsing. The molecule's balanced hydrophilic and lipophilic properties contribute to smooth application and consistent product consistency in lotions, conditioners, and body washes. Derived through esterification, it enables formulators to achieve desirable viscosities without compromising stability.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1-3 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.
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 creamy lotions and smooth creams.

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

Non-comedogenic nature helps maintain clear pores in formulations.

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 wanting reliable emulsion stability in daily moisturizers.
Those sensitive to ethoxylated compounds.
Individuals using foaming cleansers for effective rinse-off.
Preferers of natural, PEG-free skincare routines.
People with acne concerns seeking non-pore-clogging options.
Individuals with allergies to fatty acid derivatives.

Safety Notes

  • Considered low hazard in cosmetic concentrations by safety assessments.
  • Potential for trace impurities minimized through manufacturing standards.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-8 Distearate

What does PEG-8 Distearate do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to cleanse and an emulsifier to mix oil and water stably.

Is PEG-8 Distearate comedogenic?

It has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it unlikely to clog pores.

What is the safety profile of PEG-8 Distearate?

EWG rates it 1-3, indicating low concern for use in cosmetics.