Ingredient review
PEG-23 Stearate
INCI: PEG-23 Stearate
A reliable synthetic emulsifier that keeps water and oil mixed in your products, but may not suit those avoiding ethoxylated ingredients.
In plain English
PEG-23 Stearate is a man-made ingredient that acts like a bridge between water and oil. In your skincare, it prevents the formula from separating into layers, so you get a consistent cream or lotion every time you use it. It's made by combining stearic acid (a fatty acid from plant or animal sources) with ethylene oxide, a process called ethoxylation.
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
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
PEG-23 Stearate 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-23 Stearate.
- 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
PEG-23 Stearate is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivative of stearic acid. The '23' refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units in the molecule, which determines its water-loving properties. It is a white to off-white waxy solid at room temperature.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, PEG-23 Stearate positions itself at the boundary between oil and water droplets. Its water-loving (hydrophilic) end dissolves in water, while its oil-loving (lipophilic) end dissolves in oil. This reduces surface tension and allows the two phases to mix into a stable emulsion, giving the product a uniform texture and preventing separation.
Pros
Effective emulsifier
PEG-23 Stearate reliably blends oil and water, ensuring your lotion or cream stays smooth and doesn't separate over time.
Low irritation risk
It has a low potential to cause skin irritation, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Cons and cautions
Ethoxylation concerns
The manufacturing process can produce trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a potential contaminant. Reputable manufacturers purify the ingredient to remove it, but it's a consideration for some users.
Not natural or biodegradable
As a synthetic PEG compound, it doesn't break down easily in the environment and is not suitable for natural or 'green' formulations.
Best for
- Anyone using conventional moisturizers or cleansers
- People with normal to dry skin looking for stable, creamy formulas
Use caution if
- Those specifically avoiding PEG compounds or ethoxylated ingredients due to personal preference or ethical concerns
Usage tips
Safety summary
PEG-23 Stearate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main safety concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, but purification steps in quality production keep levels well below regulatory limits. Skin irritation and allergy are rare.
Research notes
Safety assessments by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel have concluded that PEG stearates are safe for use in cosmetics. Studies focus on their low irritation and sensitization potential. There is limited recent research specifically on PEG-23 Stearate, but it is well-understood as a class.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 1-5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US (FDA), EU (CosIng), and many other regions. The EU restricts 1,4-dioxane content to 10 ppm or less in finished products.
- Common uses
- Moisturizers, Cleansers, Sunscreens, Makeup removers
- Environmental note
- PEG-23 Stearate is not readily biodegradable and may persist in aquatic environments. Its production involves ethylene oxide, which is derived from fossil fuels.
Good to know
- PEG-23 Stearate is often used alongside other emulsifiers to fine-tune texture.
- The number '23' indicates the length of the PEG chain, which affects how water-loving the molecule is.
Common questions
What is PEG-23 Stearate in beauty products?
PEG-23 Stearate is a man-made ingredient that acts like a bridge between water and oil. In your skincare, it prevents the formula from separating into layers, so you get a consistent cream or lotion every time you use it. It's made by combining stearic acid (a fatty acid from plant or animal sources) with ethylene oxide, a process called ethoxylation.
What does PEG-23 Stearate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, PEG-23 Stearate positions itself at the boundary between oil and water droplets. Its water-loving (hydrophilic) end dissolves in water, while its oil-loving (lipophilic) end dissolves in oil. This reduces surface tension and allows the two phases to mix into a stable emulsion, giving the product a uniform texture and preventing separation.
Is PEG-23 Stearate safe for most people?
PEG-23 Stearate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main safety concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane during manufacturing, but purification steps in quality production keep levels well below regulatory limits. Skin irritation and allergy are rare.
Who should be careful with PEG-23 Stearate?
Those specifically avoiding PEG compounds or ethoxylated ingredients due to personal preference or ethical concerns
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.