What Is Peg-75 Stearate?
Peg-75 Stearate is a man-made ingredient created by linking stearic acid, a fatty acid usually taken from vegetable oils like coconut or palm, with about 75 units of ethylene oxide. The result is a waxy solid that mixes oil and water with ease. Chemists began experimenting with this type of compound in the mid-20th century when the beauty industry needed gentler alternatives to strong soaps. Over time its reliable performance and mild feel earned it a place in everyday personal care formulas.
The production process starts with purified stearic acid that reacts with ethylene oxide under controlled heat and pressure. Makers then neutralize and purify the blend to remove any unwanted leftovers. The finished material is a creamy off-white solid or flakes that dissolve well in warm water and many oils, making it simple to add during manufacturing.
Thanks to its texture-friendly nature, Peg-75 Stearate often shows up in facial cleansers, cream or gel face washes, exfoliating scrubs, makeup removers, body washes, micellar waters and baby care cleansers. You may also spot it in moisturizers and light lotions where a small cleansing touch is helpful for rinse-off masks or overnight wash-off treatments.
Peg-75 Stearate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient is valued mainly for one key role in skin care products.
Cleansing: Peg-75 Stearate lifts away dirt, excess oil and leftover makeup while keeping the formula gentle. Its structure bridges water and oil, allowing grime to loosen and rinse off without stripping the skin’s natural moisture. This makes wash-off products feel creamy and non-tight after use.
Who Can Use Peg-75 Stearate
This cleansing agent suits most skin types including normal, oily, combination and sensitive because it is gentle and rinses clean. Very dry or compromised skin may want a richer formula as Peg-75 Stearate does not add lasting moisture.
The stearic acid used is typically taken from plant oils so products containing Peg-75 Stearate are generally appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. Check the brand’s sourcing and cruelty free policy to be certain.
Available data shows no known risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in topical products. Nothing here is medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a doctor review their skin care routine to stay on the safe side.
Peg-75 Stearate does not cause photosensitivity and no extra sun care steps are required beyond everyday protection.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects can differ from one person to another. The following issues are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is included at typical cosmetic levels.
- Mild skin irritation
- Temporary redness or warmth
- Stinging on broken or highly inflamed skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis
If any of these reactions occur stop use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Peg-75 Stearate is lightly derived from stearic acid, a fatty acid with modest pore-clogging potential, yet the heavy PEG portion makes the molecule highly water-soluble so it rinses away rather than lingering in pores. Real-world product testing and ingredient databases list it at the low end of the scale, which is why it earns a 1.
Most people prone to acne or breakouts can usually use products containing Peg-75 Stearate without seeing an increase in clogged pores.
Formulas that pair this ingredient with heavy plant butters or waxes can raise the overall comedogenic risk, so look at the complete ingredient list if you are very breakout-sensitive.
Summary
Peg-75 Stearate is a plant-derived cleansing agent that bridges oil and water so dirt, sunscreen and makeup lift off the skin then rinse away easily. It delivers a creamy feel that avoids the squeaky tightness strong soaps can cause.
While not a headline ingredient, it shows up quietly in everyday cleansers, micellar waters, baby washes and some lightweight lotions because it is reliable, gentle and cost-effective.
Safety data classifies it as low risk with only rare irritation reports. Most skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone, tolerate it well. As with any new product do a quick patch test first to be sure your skin agrees.