Steareth-30

What is Steareth-30?

Steareth-30 is a synthetic non-ionic surfactant chemically known as polyoxyethylene (30) stearyl ether. It forms by ethoxylating stearyl alcohol—a long-chain C18 fatty alcohol derived from vegetable oils or petrochemicals—with approximately 30 units of ethylene oxide. This process creates a hydrophilic head and hydrophobic tail, enabling it to bridge oil and water phases. In skincare, it appears in lotions, creams, shampoos, body washes, and toners within the cleansing and moisturizing categories. Functionally, it lowers surface tension to form micelles that trap oils and dirt for rinsing, stabilizes emulsions for uniform textures, and disperses water-insoluble ingredients like essential oils or perfumes into clear aqueous systems. This versatility supports effective product performance without heaviness.

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

Facilitates gentle removal of dirt and excess oils through micelle formation.

Stabilizes oil-in-water emulsions for smooth, spreadable creams and lotions.

Enables incorporation of fragrances and oils into watery formulas for clear toners.

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 using daily cleansers needing mild surfactant action.
Those with rare allergies to ethoxylated surfactants.
Users of emulsified moisturizers for even blending.
Individuals sensitive to synthetic emulsifiers in high concentrations.
People preferring lightweight, clear water-based sprays or mists.
Users opting for fully natural or non-surfactant formulations.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with scores of 1 across assessments.
  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use by Cosmetic Ingredient Review experts.

Frequently Asked Questions about Steareth-30

What is Steareth-30 used for in products?

It serves as a surfactant for cleansing, emulsifying oils into water, and solubilizing fragrances in cleansers, lotions, and toners.

Is Steareth-30 safe for skin?

Yes, it holds a low EWG hazard rating of 1 and is considered safe by cosmetic safety reviews.

Does Steareth-30 cause breakouts?

No, its comedogenic rating is 0, making it unlikely to clog pores.