Common Name(s): Peg-40 distearate,peg-40 stearic acid (diester) ester,polyethylene glycol-40 stearic acid (diester) ester

DESCRIPTION

What It Does: Helps oil and water blend together in creams and lotions while conditioning and moisturizing skin.

Why It's Used: Selected for hlb ~12–14 o/w emulsification and skin conditioning; the stearic acid (diester) chain provides natural affinity with skin lipids.

How It Works: 40 eo units give hlb ~12–14; stearic acid (diester) tail provides oil-phase anchoring and skin conditioning; nonionic character enables broad ph compatibility and electrolyte tolerance.

Typically Found In: O/w emulsions,creams,lotions,skin conditioning products

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Primary Category: Functional ingredient – emulsifier

Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning,surfactant,moisturizing

Application Areas:

Typical Concentration Range: 0.5%–5%

SOURCING & ETHICS

Vegan Status: Yes

Halal Status: Yes

Source Notes: Stearic acid from palm/soy; eo from petrochemical.

SKIN COMPATIBILITY

Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low

Comedogenicity Rating: 1/5 – low

Sensitivity Concerns: Generally well tolerated. peg-based; trace 1,4-dioxane concern for certified organic use.

Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes

SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY

Safety Profile: Good safety profile. ewg score: 1–2.

Works Well With: Emollients,humectants,fatty alcohols,other peg emulsifiers

Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities

SCIENTIFIC NOTE

Peg-40 esters of stearic acid (diester) provide hlb ~12–14, appropriate for o/w emulsification and/or solubilization depending on oil phase. high-eo distearate; hlb ~12-14 despite diester due to high eo; o/w emulsification.

Last Verified: 2026-03-27

Primary Sources: Cosing database,inci dictionary,specialchem formulations