PEG-100 Stearate — Allergy Risk & Safety Profile
INCI: PEG-100 STEARATE
Key Facts
- CAS Number
- 9004-99-3
- Category
- emulsifier
- Risk Level
- safe
- Common Allergen
- No
Is PEG-100 Stearate safe in cosmetics?
PEG-100 Stearate is rated safe risk in cosmetic products. It is not classified as a common allergen and is generally well-tolerated by most skin types.
What is PEG-100 Stearate?
Emulsifier and surfactant. Common in moisturizers and cleansers.
Allergy & Safety Information
PEG-100 Stearate is considered safe for cosmetic use. No significant safety concerns have been identified at typical use concentrations. As with any cosmetic ingredient, discontinue use if irritation occurs.
About Emulsifier Ingredients
Emulsifiers allow oil and water to mix stably in a formulation, creating creams and lotions. They work by surrounding oil droplets with molecules that are compatible with both water and oil. Most emulsifiers have low sensitisation rates, but some — particularly PEG-derived emulsifiers — can be problematic for barrier-compromised skin.
Relevance for PEG-100 Stearate: Emulsifiers can disrupt the skin's own lipid barrier through a process called emulsification of skin lipids. For very sensitive or eczema-prone skin, emulsifier-free moisturisers (ointments, oils) are sometimes better tolerated than emulsion-based creams.
How to Identify PEG-100 Stearate in Products
Cosmetic ingredients are listed by their INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name in descending order of concentration. To check whether a product contains PEG-100 Stearate, scan the ingredient list for its INCI name exactly as it appears above. Ingredients present at 1% or less may appear in any order after the 1% threshold.
Not sure if your products contain PEG-100 Stearate? Paste the ingredient list into the free ingredient checker to scan for PEG-100 Stearate and other allergens automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PEG-100 Stearate safe for sensitive skin?
PEG-100 Stearate is generally well-tolerated, even by sensitive skin types.
What products contain PEG-100 Stearate?
PEG-100 Stearate is found in various cosmetic and personal care products including skincare, haircare, and body care products.
What does PEG-100 Stearate do in cosmetics?
PEG-100 Stearate functions as a emulsifier in formulations.
Related Guides
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