PEG-90 Glyceryl Isostearate

PEG / Ethoxylated
Concerns
Malassezia Feeding

What is PEG-90 Glyceryl Isostearate?

PEG-90 Glyceryl Isostearate is a synthetic surfactant created by ethoxylating glyceryl isostearate, a derivative of isostearic acid from vegetable oils or petrochemical sources, with about 90 ethylene oxide units. This process yields a hydrophilic molecule that excels in rinse-off personal care products like shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. It works by lowering water's surface tension, enabling it to mix with oils and form micelles—tiny structures that trap dirt and sebum for easy rinsing. Primarily valued for its emulsifying prowess, it stabilizes oil-in-water formulations and aids in gentle impurity removal without stripping skin harshly.

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

Emulsifies oils effectively for thorough yet mild cleansing.

Supports stable formulations in shampoos and washes.

Non-comedogenic, helping maintain clear pores.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Those seeking gentle daily cleansers for normal skin.
Individuals prone to Malassezia-related skin issues.
Users of shampoos needing good lather and rinse.
Those sensitive to ethoxylated ingredients.
People wanting oil-emulsifying action without pore clogging.
People preferring PEG-free formulations.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with limited concerns for use.
  • Reviewed safe by Cosmetic Ingredient Review for cosmetics.

Frequently Asked Questions about PEG-90 Glyceryl Isostearate

What does PEG-90 Glyceryl Isostearate do in products?

It acts as a surfactant to emulsify oils and cleanse by forming micelles that lift away dirt.

Is it safe for everyday use?

Generally considered safe in rinse-off products per expert reviews, with low hazard rating.

Does it clog pores?

No, it has a comedogenic rating of zero.