Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams
Formula IngredientEmulsifierINCI: PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate
PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate is a polyethylene glycol ester derived from pentaerythritol and stearic acid, with approximately 150 ethylene oxide units. It functions as a water-soluble emulsifier, helping to blend oil and water phases in cosmetic formulations by reducing surface tension at the oil-water interface. It is widely used in rinse-off products such as cleansers, shampoos, baby washes, and body washes.
Category
Emulsifier
Irritation Risk
Low
Skin Types
all skin types, oily, dry, combination, sensitive, acne-prone
emulsification, oil-water blending, formulation stability, improved texture and spreadability
No EU CosIng Annex II (banned) or Annex III (restricted) classification. As a high-molecular-weight polymer used primarily in rinse-off products, dermal absorption is negligible and irritation potential is very low. Well tolerated across skin types in typical rinse-off formulations.
PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate is not a photosensitising ingredient. No increased sun sensitivity is associated with its use.
No pregnancy-specific safety concerns identified. As a large-molecular-weight polymer used primarily in rinse-off products with negligible systemic absorption, it is generally considered low risk. No reproductive or developmental concerns are noted in available cosmetic safety databases.
PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate is a polyethylene glycol ester derived from pentaerythritol and stearic acid, with approximately 150 ethylene oxide units. It functions as a water-soluble emulsifier, helping to blend oil and water phases in cosmetic formulations by reducing surface tension at the oil-water interface. It is widely used in rinse-off products such as cleansers, shampoos, baby washes, and body washes.
Individuals with known sensitivity to PEG (polyethylene glycol) derivatives should review the considerations above before use.