Skincare Ingredient
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Peg-150 Distearate
In Skincare: Is Peg-150 Distearate Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Data & Research
Scientific Facts
Common Uses
Formulation in Peg-150 Distearate
Role of Peg-150 Distearate
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
SURFACTANT - CLEANSING
Cleansing SurfactantRemoves dirt and oil through surfactant action
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Cleansing surfactants specifically formulated for removing sebum, dirt, and impurities. Primarily anionic (sodium laureth sulfate, sodium cocoyl isethionate) and amphoteric surfactants (betaines). Mechanism involves reducing surface tension enabling water to wet oily surfaces, solubilizing lipophilic materials in micelles, and emulsifying oils for rinse-off. Cleansing efficacy balanced with mildness by surfactant selection, concentration, and pH optimization. Must avoid excessive lipid removal that compromises barrier function.
SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING
Emulsifying SurfactantBlends oil and water phases into stable mixtures
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Emulsifying surfactants enable creation of stable oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsions by positioning at oil-water interface, reducing interfacial tension. HLB (hydrophilic-lipophilic balance) determines emulsion type: HLB 3-6 for W/O, HLB 8-18 for O/W emulsions. Examples include polysorbate 80, ceteareth-20, glyceryl stearate. Mechanism involves forming interfacial film preventing droplet coalescence. Often used in combinations with co-emulsifiers (fatty alcohols) creating lamellar structures for enhanced stability.
VISCOSITY CONTROLLING
Thickness RegulatorAdjusts product thickness and flow properties
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Viscosity controlling ingredients modify product flow characteristics through thickening or thinning. Thickeners include natural gums (xanthan, guar), synthetic polymers (carbomers, acrylates), and inorganic thickeners (silica, clays). Mechanism varies: polymer chain entanglement, hydrogen bonding networks, particle association, or swelling. Rheology modifiers create desired texture, prevent separation, control application properties, and affect sensory perception. Can produce Newtonian (constant viscosity) or non-Newtonian (shear-thinning, thixotropic) flow behavior.
Products
containing Peg-150 Distearate
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Frequently Asked Questions
Peg-150 Distearate — common questions
What is Peg-150 Distearate in skincare?
PEG-150 Distearate is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivative produced by reacting stearic acid with a specific number of ethylene oxide units. This process creates a mixture ranging from liquid to solid or flakes, commonly used in cosmetic formulations. It’s found in products such as shampoos, hair conditioners, body washes, facial cleansers, and other skincare items.
What does Peg-150 Distearate do? / Functions of Peg-150 Distearate?
Common functions: SURFACTANT - CLEANSING, SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING.
What is the comedogenic rating of Peg-150 Distearate? / Is Peg-150 Distearate comedogenic?
The comedogenic rating of Peg-150 Distearate has not been established in our database.
Does it clog pores?
Whether Peg-150 Distearate clogs pores depends on the formulation and concentration.
Is Peg-150 Distearate safe for skin?
Peg-150 Distearate has a safety rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: PEG-150 Distearate is a PEG-derivatized emulsifier and thickener commonly used in cosmetics; while generally considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel, it may cause mild irr
Is Peg-150 Distearate good for sensitive skin?
Peg-150 Distearate has an irritancy rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally well-tolerated.
What are the side effects of Peg-150 Distearate in skincare?
Known considerations: PEG-150 Distearate is a PEG-derivatized emulsifier and thickener commonly used in cosmetics; while generally considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel, it may cause mild irritation in individuals with sensitive skin and has a low potential for comedogenicity. Due to the PEG base, there is a potential for trace contamination with ethylene oxide or 1,4-dioxane, though these impurities are typically present at negligible levels under proper manufacturing conditions.