Steareth-4

What is Steareth-4?

Steareth-4 is a synthetic ingredient formed by reacting stearyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol derived from stearic acid, with four units of ethylene oxide through ethoxylation. This process creates a polyethylene glycol ether known as a non-ionic surfactant. In cosmetics, it appears in cleansers, shampoos, lotions, and creams, where it reduces surface tension to lift dirt, oils, and impurities during washing. As an emulsifier, it forms a protective film at the oil-water interface, preventing separation and ensuring smooth, uniform textures in emulsions. Its short hydrophilic chain contributes to mild performance, making it a common choice for everyday formulations that require gentle action and stability.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low 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 effective cleansing by lowering surface tension for better dirt removal in washes.

Helps create stable lotions and creams with even consistency.

Non-comedogenic profile suits formulations for clearer skin appearance.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Users of daily cleansers and body washes needing mild surfactant action.
Those with rare allergies to ethoxylated compounds.
Individuals applying emulsified moisturizers for reliable texture.
Preferers of completely PEG-free cosmetic products.
People seeking non-pore-clogging ingredients in routine skincare.
Individuals sensitive to surfactants in high concentrations.

Safety Notes

  • Recognized as safe in cosmetics by regulatory reviews when properly formulated.
  • Low hazard potential in typical use levels per safety assessments.

Frequently Asked Questions about Steareth-4

What does Steareth-4 do in skincare?

It acts as a surfactant for cleansing and an emulsifier to blend oil and water phases stably.

Is Steareth-4 comedogenic?

It carries a comedogenic rating of 0, indicating low likelihood of pore blockage.

How safe is Steareth-4 for skin?

Safety evaluations deem it suitable for cosmetics when used in non-irritating amounts.