Ingredient review
Steareth-13
INCI: STEARETH-13
Steareth-13 is a gentle synthetic emulsifier that helps stabilize creams and lotions, but it is produced with ethylene oxide, which raises purity concerns.
In plain English
Steareth-13 is a man-made ingredient that helps oil and water mix together in products like lotions and cleansers. It is part of a family of ingredients called ethoxylates, which are made by adding ethylene oxide to a fatty alcohol. While it is generally considered safe in small amounts, the manufacturing process can leave behind trace impurities like 1,4-dioxane, which some people prefer to avoid.
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
Steareth-13 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 Steareth-13.
- 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
Steareth-13 is a polyethylene glycol (PEG) ether of stearyl alcohol, containing an average of 13 ethylene oxide units. It is a white, waxy solid at room temperature and acts as a non-ionic surfactant.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, Steareth-13 reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to form a stable emulsion. This prevents the product from separating into layers and gives it a smooth, uniform texture.
Pros
Effective emulsifier
Steareth-13 reliably blends oil and water, giving creams and lotions a consistent, non-greasy feel that lasts on the shelf.
Low irritation potential
At typical use levels, it is considered very mild and unlikely to cause stinging or redness, even for many sensitive skin types.
Cons and cautions
Ethoxylation concerns
The manufacturing process uses ethylene oxide, which can leave trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen. Reputable manufacturers purify the ingredient to remove these impurities.
Not biodegradable
As a synthetic ethoxylate, Steareth-13 is not readily biodegradable, which may be a concern for environmentally conscious consumers.
Best for
- People using standard commercial lotions and creams
- Those who want a stable, non-separating product
Use caution if
- Individuals who strictly avoid ethoxylated or PEG ingredients
- Those with very sensitive skin who prefer minimal-ingredient formulas
Usage tips
Safety summary
Steareth-13 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main safety concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane, but reputable manufacturers purify the ingredient to meet safety standards. Regulatory bodies like the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) have deemed it safe as used.
Research notes
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has evaluated ethoxylated alcohols, including steareths, and concluded they are safe for use in cosmetics when formulated to be non-irritating. Studies show low acute toxicity and skin irritation at typical use levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.5% to 5%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and the European Commission, with concentration limits typically not specified due to its low toxicity profile.
- Common uses
- Cleansers, Lotions, Creams, Shampoos
- Environmental note
- Steareth-13 is synthetic and not readily biodegradable. Its production involves ethylene oxide, a fossil-fuel-derived chemical.
Good to know
- Steareth-13 is often used alongside other steareth variants (e.g., Steareth-2, Steareth-20) to fine-tune emulsion texture.
- The number '13' refers to the average number of ethylene oxide units, which affects its water solubility and emulsifying strength.
Common questions
What is Steareth-13 in beauty products?
Steareth-13 is a man-made ingredient that helps oil and water mix together in products like lotions and cleansers. It is part of a family of ingredients called ethoxylates, which are made by adding ethylene oxide to a fatty alcohol. While it is generally considered safe in small amounts, the manufacturing process can leave behind trace impurities like 1,4-dioxane, which some people prefer to avoid.
What does Steareth-13 do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, Steareth-13 reduces the surface tension between oil and water, allowing them to form a stable emulsion. This prevents the product from separating into layers and gives it a smooth, uniform texture.
Is Steareth-13 safe for most people?
Steareth-13 is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main safety concern is potential contamination with 1,4-dioxane, but reputable manufacturers purify the ingredient to meet safety standards. Regulatory bodies like the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) have deemed it safe as used.
Who should be careful with Steareth-13?
Individuals who strictly avoid ethoxylated or PEG ingredients Those with very sensitive skin who prefer minimal-ingredient formulas
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.