Steareth-25

What is Steareth-25?

Steareth-25 is a polyethoxylated fatty alcohol, chemically synthesized by reacting stearyl alcohol—a long-chain fatty alcohol from plant or animal sources—with ethylene oxide to add hydrophilic polyethylene glycol chains. This structure makes it amphiphilic, with a hydrophobic tail and hydrophilic head, ideal for use in lotions, creams, shampoos, and cleansers. In formulations, it reduces surface tension between oil and water phases, stabilizing emulsions for smooth textures. As a surfactant, it forms micelles that encapsulate oils and dirt for easy rinsing. Its solubilizing action disperses water-insoluble ingredients like fragrances into aqueous bases, ensuring uniform distribution and clarity in sprays or toners. Commonly found in rinse-off and leave-on products at low levels, it supports clear, stable cosmetic systems without compromising mildness.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 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.
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.

Benefits

Provides gentle cleansing by lifting dirt and oils without harsh stripping.

Stabilizes emulsions for creamy, non-separating textures in moisturizers.

Enables clear incorporation of fragrances and oils in water-based products.

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 seeking mild surfactants in daily cleansers or shampoos.
Those with known sensitivity to ethoxylated ingredients.
People with normal to combination skin needing balanced hydration.
People preferring silicone- or sulfate-free formulations.
Users of emulsified products like lotions preferring stable formulas.
Individuals avoiding synthetic surfactants entirely.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by safety assessments for cosmetic use.
  • Generally non-comedogenic and suitable for most skin types.

Frequently Asked Questions about Steareth-25

What is Steareth-25 used for in cosmetics?

It acts as a surfactant for cleansing, emulsifying oils into water, and solubilizing fragrances.

Is Steareth-25 safe for sensitive skin?

Safety data supports low irritation risk in rinse-off and leave-on products.

Does Steareth-25 cause acne?

It has a comedogenic rating of zero, making it non-pore-clogging.