PEG-8 Stearate

PEG / Ethoxylated

What is PEG-8 Stearate?

PEG-8 Stearate is a synthetic ingredient formed by esterifying stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid typically derived from palm, coconut, or tallow sources, with polyethylene glycol featuring eight ethylene oxide units. This creates an ethoxylated compound belonging to the PEG fatty acid ester group. In cosmetics, it serves primarily in rinse-off and leave-on products such as lotions, creams, shampoos, conditioners, and makeup removers. Functionally, it acts by reducing interfacial tension between immiscible oil and water phases, forming a protective film that stabilizes emulsions and prevents separation. As a surfactant, it enables micelle formation to solubilize oils and dirt during cleansing, contributing to spreadability and foaming in formulations without overly disrupting the skin's barrier.

Comedogenic Rating 3/5 Higher 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.
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 consistent lotion and cream textures.

Facilitates effective yet mild cleansing by dispersing oils and impurities.

Enhances product application by improving spreadability and reducing 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
Individuals with normal to dry skin using emulsified moisturizers.
Those with oily skin due to potential pore-clogging effects.
Users of creamy cleansers seeking gentle oil removal.
Acne-prone individuals, as it carries moderate comedogenic risk.
People preferring smooth, non-separating skincare formulations.
People sensitive to ethoxylated compounds.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low to moderate concern by EWG, considered safe for cosmetic use by CIR.
  • Potential for trace impurities from manufacturing, but regulated in approved products.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-8 Stearate

What does PEG-8 Stearate do in skincare?

It emulsifies oils and water for stable products and cleanses by forming micelles to lift dirt.

Is PEG-8 Stearate comedogenic?

It has a moderate comedogenic rating of 3, making it less ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.

Is PEG-8 Stearate irritating?

Evidence from reviews indicates low irritation potential for most users.