PEG-90 Diisostearate

What is PEG-90 Diisostearate?

PEG-90 Diisostearate is a non-ionic surfactant created by reacting polyethylene glycol with 90 ethylene oxide units to diisostearic acid, a branched-chain fatty acid derivative. This synthetic compound appears in rinse-off cosmetics such as shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. It functions by lowering the surface tension at the interface of water, oils, and air, which facilitates the formation of micelles that trap and remove dirt, excess sebum, and makeup. In product formulations, it stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions, enhances foam generation, and promotes quick, residue-free rinsing. Its water solubility and compatibility with other surfactants make it suitable for gentle cleansing systems, typically incorporated at low levels to support effective yet mild performance across hair and skin care routines.

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.

Benefits

Aids in lifting and rinsing away oils and soils from skin and hair.

Contributes to stable foams and emulsions in liquid cleansers.

Supports clean rinse-off, minimizing residue on surfaces.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People using frequent shampoos or body washes for daily hygiene.
Those with rare sensitivity to polyethylene glycol compounds.
Individuals with oily skin needing oil-emulsifying cleansers.
People preferring formulations without ethoxylated ingredients.
Users of foaming rinse-off products seeking mild surfactants.
Individuals concerned about potential manufacturing impurities.

Safety Notes

  • Deemed safe in cosmetics at typical use levels by expert reviews.
  • May contain trace impurities if not highly purified, per standard assessments.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-90 Diisostearate

What does PEG-90 Diisostearate do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to emulsify oils, create foam, and enable effective cleansing and rinsing.

Is PEG-90 Diisostearate comedogenic?

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

How safe is PEG-90 Diisostearate for skin?

Expert panels consider it safe for use in rinse-off cosmetics at common concentrations.