What Is Peg-23 Glyceryl Distearate?
Peg-23 Glyceryl Distearate is a plant or vegetable based fatty acid derivative made by joining glycerin, stearic acid from natural oils such as palm or coconut, and about 23 units of ethylene oxide. The result is a waxy, off-white solid that melts easily into creams and lotions. Chemists first explored this type of molecule in the 1960s when they were looking for gentler alternatives to mineral oil. Its balance of water loving and oil loving parts made it a standout for skincare, so manufacturers soon added it to moisturizers, sunscreens and rinse off cleansers. Production starts with food grade glycerin that is reacted with stearic acid to form glyceryl distearate. Ethoxylation is then carried out, which means controlled exposure to ethylene oxide gas, giving the finished ingredient its Peg-23 label. Because it can disperse oils in water and leave skin feeling soft, it now appears in face masks, daily lotions, baby care formulas and color cosmetics.
Peg-23 Glyceryl Distearate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued for one main role in skincare products.
As an emollient it smooths and softens the skin surface by forming a thin, breathable layer that traps moisture. This helps cut down on rough patches, boosts the glide of a formula and gives finished products a rich, silky feel without making them greasy.
Who Can Use Peg-23 Glyceryl Distearate
This silky emollient suits most skin types, including dry, normal and combination skin that crave extra softness. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well because it is non-fragrant and mild. Extremely oily or acne-prone complexions can also use it since it has a very low tendency to clog pores, though some may prefer lighter textures.
The ingredient is usually sourced from vegetable oils, so products made with certified plant-based stearic acid are appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. If the label does not specify plant origin, consumers who avoid animal derivatives may want to confirm with the manufacturer.
Peg-23 Glyceryl Distearate is regarded as safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding because it stays on the skin’s surface and is not readily absorbed into the bloodstream. This is not medical advice; expectant or nursing mothers should show any skincare routine to their healthcare provider for peace of mind.
It does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and has no known interactions with common active ingredients such as retinoids, vitamin C or hydroxy acids.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Peg-23 Glyceryl Distearate differ from person to person. The points below list potential, but uncommon, side effects when the ingredient is used in a properly formulated cosmetic product. Most people experience none of these issues.
- Mild stinging or burning on very sensitive skin
- Transient redness or rash in individuals with a stearic acid allergy
- Contact dermatitis triggered by residual ethylene oxide impurities
- Small blemishes if the product is layered with heavy occlusives on acne-prone skin
- Eye irritation if the cream accidentally gets into the eyes
If any discomfort, itching or swelling develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5. Peg-23 Glyceryl Distearate has a large molecular size and a balanced water-oil profile, so it tends to sit on the surface and rinse off easily rather than settle deep inside pores. Formulas that keep the overall oil phase light rarely report clogged pores from this ingredient. It is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, though individual responses can differ. Very heavy, butter-rich creams that include it could still feel too occlusive for extremely oily complexions, so texture of the full product matters more than the presence of this single emulsifier-type emollient.
Summary
Peg-23 Glyceryl Distearate is mainly an emollient that smooths, softens and improves spreadability by laying down a thin moisture-locking film. Its mix of glycerin-derived backbone, plant fatty acids and 23 ethylene oxide units gives it both water-friendly and oil-friendly sections, letting it blend oils into water while leaving skin supple not greasy. You will spot it in lotions, sunscreens, baby washes and sheer color products, but it is not a headline ingredient so it tends to fly under the radar compared with buzzier hydrators like hyaluronic acid.
Safety data show it is low risk for irritation, non-sensitizing for most users and largely non-comedogenic. As with any new skincare product it is smart to do a quick patch test to confirm personal tolerance before full-face use.