What Is Steareth-200?
Steareth-200 is a synthetic compound created by reacting stearyl alcohol, a fatty alcohol derived from plant or animal fats, with ethylene oxide. The result is a long-chain polyethylene glycol ether that is both water-loving and oil-loving. Chemists first explored this family of ingredients in the mid-20th century when the beauty industry needed reliable agents to keep oil and water mixed in creams and lotions. Over time formulators discovered that the higher the number attached to “Steareth,” the more water-soluble the ingredient becomes. Steareth-200 sits at the upper end of the series, offering excellent performance in water-rich products.
The manufacturing process involves ethoxylation: stearyl alcohol is exposed to controlled amounts of ethylene oxide gas under pressure and heat. The “200” indicates the approximate average number of ethylene oxide units added to each molecule, giving it the ability to dissolve easily in water and stabilize emulsions.
Because of its strong affinity for both oil and water, Steareth-200 shows up in a range of personal care items such as facial cleansers, rinse-off masks, micellar waters, lightweight moisturizers, hair conditioners, makeup removers and serums that aim for a smooth, non-greasy feel.
Steareth-200’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Formulators turn to Steareth-200 for two main reasons.
- Cleansing: Its surfactant properties help lift away dirt, excess oil and makeup so they can be rinsed off easily. This leads to a cleaner feel without the squeakiness that harsher detergents can cause.
- Emulsifying: It acts as a bridge between water and oil, allowing creams, lotions and liquid products to stay uniformly blended. This stability prevents separation in the bottle, gives products a smooth consistency and helps active ingredients spread evenly across the skin or hair.
Who Can Use Steareth-200
Steareth-200 is generally suitable for all skin types. Its mild surfactant action helps oily and combination skin feel fresh without stripping, while its high molecular weight means it is unlikely to penetrate deeply enough to aggravate dry or sensitive skin. Those with a known allergy to polyethylene glycols or extremely compromised skin barriers may want to choose an alternative.
The ingredient can be sourced from either plant or animal fats. Brands that target vegan or vegetarian consumers typically specify that their stearyl alcohol comes from coconut or palm oil, so check the label or contact the company if animal-free sourcing is important to you.
Current safety assessments rate Steareth-200 as low risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. Absorption through intact skin is minimal, yet this is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm product choices with a healthcare professional.
Steareth-200 does not cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more reactive to sunlight. It is also compatible with most common skincare actives and preservatives, giving formulators flexibility without increasing the chance of adverse reactions.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Individual responses to topical Steareth-200 can vary. The following list covers potential side effects, but most users will not experience them when products are formulated and used as intended.
- Mild skin irritation in people with very sensitive or damaged skin
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitized to polyethylene glycols
- Eye stinging or redness if the raw ingredient comes in direct contact with the eyes before dilution in a finished formula
- Trace 1,4-dioxane contamination concerns if manufacturing purification steps are inadequate, although reputable brands monitor and remove this by-product
If you notice redness, itching or any persistent discomfort after using a product that contains Steareth-200 stop using it immediately and consult a healthcare provider.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Steareth-200 earns a low score because its large polyethylene glycol chain keeps it mostly on the skin surface where it helps water mix with oil rather than slipping into pores and blocking them. While it is derived from a fatty alcohol, the extensive ethoxylation dramatically lowers any pore-clogging potential.
In practical terms this makes Steareth-200 generally suitable for those prone to acne or breakouts.
Keep in mind that the overall formula still matters. If Steareth-200 appears alongside heavy oils or waxes the end product could feel richer and pose a higher clogging risk than the raw ingredient alone.
Summary
Steareth-200 is valued for two main jobs: it lifts away grime as a mild cleanser and it keeps water and oil blended as an emulsifier. Its long PEG chain holds onto water while the stearyl backbone grabs oil, so it anchors both phases and lets active ingredients glide on smoothly.
Although it is not the most talked-about name in beauty circles, chemists rely on it whenever they need a dependable, water-loving surfactant that will not disturb sensitive skin.
Current safety reviews classify Steareth-200 as low risk for everyday cosmetic use. Side effects are rare yet everyone’s skin is different, so do a small patch test when trying a new product to confirm your personal tolerance.