Ingredient review
PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin
INCI: PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin
A synthetic thickener that gives creams and lotions a rich, velvety texture without clogging pores or irritating skin.
In plain English
PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin is a man-made ingredient that helps thicken and stabilize skincare products. It gives creams and lotions a smooth, luxurious feel without making them greasy. Think of it as the ingredient that keeps your moisturizer from separating into watery and oily layers, and gives it that satisfying, spreadable texture.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- semi synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A semi-synthetic polymer created by reacting polyethylene glycol (PEG) with trihydroxystearin, a derivative of castor oil. It belongs to a class of ingredients called rheology modifiers, which control how a product flows and feels.
How it works
In a cosmetic formula, PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin forms a network of molecular chains that trap water and oil, increasing the product's viscosity. This prevents separation and gives a creamy, stable texture. It also helps other ingredients spread evenly on the skin.
Pros
Excellent texture enhancer
Gives creams and lotions a smooth, velvety feel without greasiness, making application pleasant and even.
Low irritation potential
Generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin, with very low reported irritation or allergic reactions.
Cons and cautions
Semi-synthetic origin
Made from PEG, which is derived from petroleum. Some consumers prefer plant-based or fully natural thickeners.
Limited skin benefit beyond texture
This ingredient primarily improves product feel and stability, but does not directly moisturize, soothe, or treat the skin.
Best for
- Anyone who enjoys rich, stable creams and lotions
- People with normal to combination skin looking for a non-greasy moisturizer texture
Use caution if
- Those who strictly avoid all PEG-derived ingredients
- Individuals with known sensitivity to PEG compounds (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. However, individuals who prefer to avoid PEG-derived ingredients may choose alternatives.
Research notes
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has reviewed PEG derivatives and found them safe for cosmetic use. Specific studies on PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin are limited, but its chemical class is well-understood and considered low-risk.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and many other regions. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has deemed it safe as used in rinse-off and leave-on products.
- Common uses
- Creams, Lotions, Serums, Makeup
- Environmental note
- As a PEG derivative, it may have moderate biodegradability. Some PEG compounds can persist in the environment, but at the low concentrations used in cosmetics, the overall impact is considered low.
Good to know
- PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin is considered safe by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel at typical use levels.
- It is often used in combination with other thickeners to achieve a specific texture.
Common questions
What is PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin in beauty products?
PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin is a man-made ingredient that helps thicken and stabilize skincare products. It gives creams and lotions a smooth, luxurious feel without making them greasy. Think of it as the ingredient that keeps your moisturizer from separating into watery and oily layers, and gives it that satisfying, spreadable texture.
What does PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic formula, PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin forms a network of molecular chains that trap water and oil, increasing the product's viscosity. This prevents separation and gives a creamy, stable texture. It also helps other ingredients spread evenly on the skin.
Is PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin safe for most people?
PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. It has low irritation and comedogenic potential. However, individuals who prefer to avoid PEG-derived ingredients may choose alternatives.
Who should be careful with PEG-200 Trihydroxystearin?
Those who strictly avoid all PEG-derived ingredients Individuals with known sensitivity to PEG compounds (rare)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.