What Is Peg-140 Glyceryl Tristearate?
Peg-140 Glyceryl Tristearate is a man-made ingredient created by reacting glycerin-based tristearate with roughly 140 units of ethylene oxide. The result is a waxy, white to off-white solid that readily mixes with both water and oil. First introduced in the late 20th century as formulators searched for gentler alternatives to traditional detergents, it quickly earned a place in personal care because it could stabilize creamy textures without leaving a heavy feel. Production involves combining stearic acid-derived glycerol tristearate with ethylene oxide under controlled heat and pressure, then purifying the blend to remove any unreacted materials. You will most often see Peg-140 Glyceryl Tristearate in moisturizers, cleansing milks, rinse-off masks, lightweight lotions, sunscreens and hair conditioners where a smooth uniform consistency is essential.
Peg-140 Glyceryl Tristearate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient serves a single yet important role in formulations. As an emulsifier it binds water and oil into a stable mixture so the product stays uniform from the first use to the last. A reliable emulsion prevents separation, improves spreadability and lets active ingredients reach the skin evenly. For the user this means a cream that feels silky, absorbs predictably and delivers consistent performance each time it is applied.
Who Can Use Peg-140 Glyceryl Tristearate
Because it is non greasy and has a light skin feel, Peg-140 Glyceryl Tristearate is generally well tolerated by most skin types including oily, combination, normal and dry. Sensitive skin usually fares well since the ingredient is considered inert and is used at low levels, but anyone prone to redness should still monitor how their skin responds. It is not known to clog pores so acne-prone users can typically apply it without worsening breakouts.
The tristearate portion is most often sourced from vegetable stearic acid and the ethylene oxide portion is fully synthetic, so products using this ingredient are usually suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Those seeking confirmation should look for a brand statement that the stearic acid is plant derived.
No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Current safety assessments classify Peg-140 Glyceryl Tristearate as low risk for systemic absorption. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any skin care product with a qualified health professional before use.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity and has no known interactions with sun exposure. It is also odorless and free of common allergens like nuts gluten and soy which reduces the chance of cross reactions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Peg-140 Glyceryl Tristearate vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Mild skin irritation
- Transient redness or warmth at the application site
- Stinging if applied to broken or highly compromised skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals already sensitized to polyethylene glycols
If any of these effects occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5. Peg-140 Glyceryl Tristearate carries a low risk of clogging pores because the heavy stearic backbone is offset by a high number of polyethylene glycol (PEG) units that boost water affinity and rinsability. These PEG chains keep the molecule from settling into pores and help it wash away easily during cleansing. As a result it is generally considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin. In leave-on formulas it is usually present at low percentages which further reduces any chance of congestion.
Formulators often pair it with lightweight oils or humectants rather than thick butters so the finished product feels breathable. This combination, along with its partial water solubility, explains the low comedogenic score.
Summary
Peg-140 Glyceryl Tristearate is mainly valued as an emulsifier that locks oil and water together so lotions, creams and conditioners stay smooth and stable. Its long stearic chains anchor into the oil phase while the PEG portion reaches into the water phase creating a microscopic bridge that keeps the two worlds united during manufacturing, storage and application.
While not the most talked-about ingredient on labels it remains a quiet workhorse in many mainstream and boutique formulas because it delivers reliable texture without a greasy afterfeel. Safety reviews rate it low in irritation potential and systemic absorption, making it suitable for a wide range of users. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a product containing Peg-140 Glyceryl Tristearate to ensure personal compatibility.