PEG 150 Disterate

CAS Number:

9005-08-7

Chemical / IUPAC Name:

Poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl), α-(1-oxooctadecyl)-ω-[(1-oxooctadecyl)oxy]- .

INCI Name:

 PEG-150 Distearate

Molecular Formula:

Not applicable (polymer)

EC Number:

Polymer Exempt

Other Names:

Polyethylene Glycol 6000 Distearate, Polyoxyethylene (150) Distearate

Uses:

PEG-150 Distearate is a hydrophilic nonionic surfactant and diester of stearic acid and polyethylene glycol. It is widely used as a multifunctional additive in cosmetics and personal care products .

· Hair Care: Used in shampoos, conditioners, baby shampoos, and anti-dandruff shampoos as a thickener and anti-static agent, providing a rich, creamy texture and improving manageability .

· Skin Care: Used in facial cleansers, shower gels, liquid hand soaps, shaving creams, and body washes to increase viscosity, stabilize formulations, and impart a smooth, pleasant after-feel .

· Color Cosmetics: Employed as an auxiliary emulsifier in foundations and other makeup products .

· Baby Care: Commonly found in gentle, mild formulations like baby shampoos, bubble baths, and baby lotions due to its low irritation potential .

Origin

PEG-150 Distearate is a semi-synthetic compound. It is produced by the esterification of stearic acid (typically derived from vegetable sources like palm kernel oil) with high molecular weight polyethylene glycol (PEG) .

What does PEG-150 Distearate do in a formulation?

• Viscosity Controlling Agent / Thickener: A primary function is to increase the viscosity of aqueous surfactant systems, especially those containing mild amphoteric surfactants .
• Emulsifying Agent: Helps stabilize oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions, preventing oil and water components from separating .
• Surfactant: Reduces surface tension, contributing to cleansing and foaming properties .
• Antistatic Agent: Reduces static electricity in hair care products .
• Solubilizer: Aids in dissolving other ingredients .

Safety Profile:

· General Hazard Classification: Generally considered safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations. Industry safety panels have established guidelines for its safe use .

· Concentration Limits: Typically used at 0.5 – 5.0%. Designated as safe in products at a concentration up to 5.0% .

· Irritation & Sensitization: Generally regarded as non-irritating and non-sensitizing to skin and eyes at typical use concentrations. Prolonged or excessive contact may cause mild irritation .

· Purity Concern (Critical): As an ethoxylated ingredient, there is a high potential for contamination with toxic impurities like 1,4-dioxane or ethylene oxide during manufacturing. High-quality manufacturers utilize purification processes to minimize these residues .

· HLB Value: ~18.4, indicating it is a hydrophilic emulsifier suitable for oil-in-water emulsions .

· Regulatory Status: Approved for use in cosmetics worldwide. Compliant with standards like RSPO, IECIC, and COSMOS .

Technical profile: