Surfactant
PEG-150 POLYGLYCERYL-2 TRISTEARATE
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
A PEGylated emulsifying agent that helps blend oil and water phases in cosmetic formulations, functioning as a surfactant and cleansing ingredient.
PEG-150 Polyglyceryl-2 Tristearate is the triester of stearic acid with ethoxylated Polyglyceryl-2, containing an average of 150 moles of ethylene oxide. The ingredient's restrictions referencing 'ban substances that deplete the ozone layer' likely reflect older regulatory language around ethylene oxide processing; the ingredient itself is not currently banned or severely restricted under EU Regulation 1223/2009. PEG compounds with high ethylene oxide counts have raised some environmental and dermatological concern due to potential 1,4-dioxane trace contamination, though this is a manufacturing quality issue rather than an inherent ingredient hazard. The restriction field is a compliance flag, not an indicator of toxicity.
Function
Skin benefits
- Effective emulsifying agent for stable cosmetic emulsions
- Contributes to cleansing and skin conditioning functions
Known concerns
- Potential trace 1,4-dioxane contamination from ethylene oxide processing (manufacturing-dependent)
- Minor environmental persistence concerns associated with polyethylene glycol derivatives
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related surfactants
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.